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What are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security in Sacramento?

May 28, 2024
Outdoor surveillance camera overlooking residential property

Are you thinking about upgrading your home security with video cameras but want to make sure you know the law governing their usage? It’s sensible to verify if you’re legally compliant, and bolstering your home with an additional layer of security is a fantastic idea. So, what are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security? Explore what you ought to know.

Understanding the reasonable expectation of privacy

One of the chief principles addressing indoor and outside surveillance cameras is the reasonable expectation of privacy. It has been accepted from a legal perspective that individuals have a right to privacy in certain places. This reasonable expectation of privacy extends to environments like bedrooms, bathrooms, and locker rooms. But, it’s completely acceptable to install cameras in public spots like the outside of your residence.

Don’t snoop and focus on home security in Sacramento

While laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home use defend your legal right to put up outside cameras, that doesn’t allow you to point them at your neighbor’s bedroom or bathroom windows. Always be heedful of where your video cameras are pointing. Whenever using indoor cameras, avoid placing them in bedrooms and baths, as guests will have an expectation of privacy.

It’s worth mentioning that state laws regarding surveillance video in public settings will differ. However, if you’re utilizing cameras on your property for the explicit reason of security, you shouldn’t have anything to be concerned about.

What about audio recordings in Sacramento?

Audio recordings from video equipment can get a bit trickier. Despite the fact a federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) permits the recording of private discussions when a single party allows, state laws fluctuate. The majority of states follow the one-party consent guideline, but many require all-party authorization in various situations. Here’s the breakdown for each state. If you live in a one-party consent state and are taking part in the discussion, you can legally record without getting permission from the other participants.

What are the best options for outdoor cameras in Sacramento?

Video cameras have come a long way in recent years. You can now select handy wireless models and access beneficial features like HD imaging, night vision, wide-angle views, and motion sensing. Some innovative video cameras even come with built-in theft deterrents. For example, some components scare off trespassers by illuminating an LED light and sounding an alarm. This is an excellent way to defend against porch pirates and invasions.

Install a Vivint home security system with top-end surveillance

Elevate your home protection and effectively dissuade crime with a comprehensive home security system from Vivint. We boast some of the leading video cameras in Sacramento, including models with active deterrents. You’ll enjoy this added security and the automatic notifications you get when a device notices suspicious behavior. Call (916) 914-8674 to explore everything we have to offer.