What You Should Understand About Home Security Camera Laws In Los Angeles

You want your property to be fully protected, and know that surveillance cameras are an essential element. Even the existence of a camera attached to the front of your house is enough to frighten away many potential intruders. But are there laws regarding where you may put them and how they may be used? For the most part, you don’t have anything to worry about, but there are a few things you should know regarding home security camera laws.

General Guidelines For Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy

Although there are no specific home security camera laws from a federal standpoint, it is legally understood that all citizens have a reasonable expectation of privacy in certain areas. For example, you would expect video recording to be banned in private spots like bathrooms, bedrooms, and locker rooms. On the contrary, locations like the front or side of your property are public and subject to surveillance. In general, individuals don’t have a right to privacy in pubilc areas.

Where Do You Have Your Los Angeles Camera Aimed?

Another aspect to contemplate is how you direct your cameras. Even when you have a camera in a public place, like attached to your garage, you can’t aim it toward a private area like your neighbor’s bedroom. In your own home, it’s wise to abstain from installing cameras in bedrooms (especially the ones used by visitors) and bathrooms.

While all states comply with the reasonable expectation of privacy requirements, there might be other laws in regards to the placement and usage of surveillance cameras. If you utilize cameras in public locations and for the intent of security, you’ll be in the clear, but it’s always a good idea to be informed of your state’s particular regulations.

Can You Record Audio From Surveillance Devices In Los Angeles?

The audio element of camera systems is not as straightforward as it depends largely on where you live. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) permits audio recording of private communications when one individual approves. So, if you have an audio-enabled camera at your home and approve of recording a conversation, you can legally do so. With that being said, numerous states have gone past the requirement of one-party consent and now require consent from all parties. Make sure you are aware of what is allowed in your state.

Why Use Cameras At Your Los Angeles Home?

You are legally allowed to operate cameras at your property, and there are good reasons for doing so. Thieves are much less likely to perceive your home as a target if they see surveillance, as they won’t want to be captured on video. If a burglary does occur, your video can be essential to law enforcement’s investigation. But you are able to employ surveillance systems for even more. You might monitor your dearest baby, look after your four-legged friends, and get proof your kids have returned from school.

Stay Protected With ADT Surveillance Systems In Los Angeles From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Get the best surveillance systems in Los Angeles by reaching out to the pros at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service people will make sure your cameras are installed correctly and run as planned. Call today at (310) 421-1393 to schedule an appointment.