What are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security in Columbia?
Are you thinking about improving your home’s security with video surveillance but want to ensure you know the law that governs their usage? It’s smart to verify if you’re legally compliant, and fortifying your home with an additional layer of security is a terrific idea. Taking that into account, what are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security? Explore what you need to know.
Keep the reasonable expectation of privacy in mind
One of the chief principles governing indoor and exterior video cameras is the reasonable expectation of privacy. It has been legally established that citizens can expect privacy in specific places. This reasonable expectation of privacy covers environments like bedrooms, bathrooms, and locker rooms. However, it’s totally reasonable to record video in public spots like outside your property.
Don’t snoop and focus on home security in Columbia
While laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home use give you the legal right to put up outdoor cameras, that doesn’t mean you should aim them at your neighbor’s bedroom or bathroom windows. Always be careful of where your video cameras are looking. When using inside cameras, they should stay out of bedrooms and bathrooms, as friends and guests will expect privacy in those spots.
It’s important to note that state laws in regards to video equipment in public areas will fluctuate. However, if you’re using cameras at your residence for the clear purpose of security, you won’t have anything to fret about.
What about audio recordings in Columbia?
Audio recordings from video equipment can be a little trickier. Despite the fact a federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) allows the recording of private interactions when just one party allows, state laws vary. The preponderance of states adhere to the one-party consent guideline, but many require all-party permission in some scenarios. Here’s the breakdown by state. If you are located in a one-party consent state and are part of the discussion, you may legally record without asking the other individuals.
What are the best possibilities for outdoor cameras in Columbia?
Surveillance systems have come a long way in recent years. You can now choose handy wireless options and access worthwhile features like HD imaging, night vision, wider viewing angles, and motion sensing. Some leading video cameras even offer built-in crime deterrence. For instance, some components scare off trespassers by flashing an LED light and triggering an alarm. This functionality is an excellent way to protect against invasion.
Get a Vivint smart home with video surveillance
Upgrade your property’s protection and effectively dissuade theft with a comprehensive security system from Vivint. We boast some of the best surveillance devices in Columbia, including options with active deterrents. You’ll enjoy this added layer of security and the automatic alerts you get when a camera perceives questionable movement. Give us a call at (573) 641-8250 to discover what we have to offer.