What You Should Understand About Home Security Camera Laws In Ithaca

You want your family to be fully secured, and know that surveillance cameras are important. The mere presence of a camera attached to the front of your house is enough to deter many prowlers. But are there legal limitations as to where you can install them and how to use them? For the most part, there’s isn’t much to be concerned about, but there are some things you should know about home security camera laws.

A Quick Note On Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy

Even though there aren’t particular federal home security camera laws, it is lawfully recognized that everyone has a reasonable expectation of privacy in specific locations. To illustrate, you would expect bedrooms, bathrooms and locker rooms to be private and off-limits to video recording. Conversely, locations like the side or front of your residence are public and open to surveillance. In general, people don’t have a legal right to privacy in pubilc settings.

Where Do You Have Your Ithaca Camera Pointed?

Another aspect to contemplate is how your cameras are directed. Even if you have a camera in a public area, like fastened to the front of your house, you can’t point it toward a private location like your neighbor’s interior. Within your own house, it’s smart to keep cameras out of bedrooms (particularly those used by houseguests) and bathrooms.

While all states abide by the reasonable expectation of privacy stipulations, there may be associated laws in regards to the use of video cameras. If you have surveillance in public areas and for the intent of security, you’ll be in compliance, but it’s always smart to know your state’s specific restrictions.

Are You Allowed Record Audio From Surveillance Devices In Ithaca?

The audio element of camera systems is trickier as it largely depends on your location. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) allows for recording audio of private exchanges as long as one party consents. So, if you have a camera with audio capability at your home and approve of recording conversations, you have a legal right to do so. However, various states have gone beyond the requirement of one-party consent and now call for consent from all parties. Ensure you know what is allowed in your state.

Why Use Cameras At Your Ithaca Home?

You have a legal right to operate cameras at your property, and there are good reasons for doing so. Vandals are much less likely to target your residence if they see cameras, as they don’t want to be captured on a recording. If a break-in does happen, your footage may be essential to the police investigation. But you may use cameras for other reasons. You can keep watch of your dearest newborn, watch over your pets, and get visual confirmation your children have returned from school.

Stay Protected With ADT Surveillance Cameras In Ithaca From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Choose the best video cameras in Ithaca by turning to the experts at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service people will ensure your cameras are installed precisely and function as expected. Give us a call today at (607) 204-9053 to request your appointment.