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December 11, 2023

What You Should Understand About Home Security Camera Laws In Long Beach

You want your family to have the best security, and know that video cameras are important. The mere presence of a camera attached to your house is enough to scare off many prowlers. But are there legal limitations as to where you can place them and how they may be used? By and large, there’s isn’t much to worry about, but there are a couple things you should know in regards to home security camera laws.

Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy Guidelines

Even though there are no particular home security camera laws from a federal perspective, it is lawfully understood that all citizens have a reasonable expectation of privacy in some areas. For example, you would expect video recording to be forbidden in private places like bathrooms, locker rooms, and bedrooms. On the contrary, areas like the front or side of your residence are public and subject to video recording. Generally speaking, people don’t have a legal right to privacy in a public area.

Where Is Your Long Beach Camera Aimed?

Another aspect to consider is how you aim your cameras. Even if you have a camera in a public area, like fastened to your garage, you can’t position it directly at a private setting like your neighbor’s interior. Inside your own house, it’s wise to abstain from placing cameras in bedrooms (specifically the ones frequented by guests) and bathrooms.

While all states comply with the reasonable expectation of privacy guidelines, there may be additional laws concerning the use of video cameras. If you utilize surveillance in public areas and for the explicit purpose of security, you’ll be in compliance, but it’s always smart to know your state’s particular restrictions.

Are You Allowed Record Audio From Camera Equipment In Long Beach?

The audio facet of surveillance is not as straightforward as it largely depends on your location. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) authorizes recording audio of private conversations as long as one party agrees. So, if you have a camera with audio capability at your home and consent to recording conversations, you are legally allowed to do so. Taking that into account, many states have gone past the one-party consent requirement and now require consent from all parties. Ensure you understand what is allowed in your state.

Why Use Cameras At Your Long Beach Residence?

You have a legal right to install cameras at your home, and there are excellent reasons for doing so. Vandals are not as likely to perceive your home as a target if they notice video cameras, as they don’t want to get caught on a recording. If a robbery does take place, your recording may be crucial to law enforcement’s investigation. But you may use surveillance systems for much more. You can observe your precious baby, look after your four-legged friends, and get visual confirmation your kids have returned from school.

Install ADT Surveillance Cameras In Long Beach From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Install the best video cameras in Long Beach by turning to the experts at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service team will ensure your cameras are installed correctly and operate as expected. Give us a call today at (562) 203-6338 to schedule your appointment.