|
Home > Are hidden surveillance cameras legal? An overview of state laws on hidden video cameras
October 25, 2006
By: Lynn Bryant
The laws on hidden video cameras vary by state. If you
currently using or considering installing a hidden video
camera system it would certainly be wise to investigate the
specific laws of your state. Doing so will insure you do not
run into any legal problems should anyone discover and take
offense to the fact you are operating a hidden video
surveillance system.
In this article, we will explore some of the general
areas of concern to consider when installing hidden
surveillance cameras. Then we will take a closer look at how
you can go about investigating the specific laws that govern
your state.
You may be surprised to find out that in most states it
is legal to install and operate a hidden video surveillance
systems even in private places. There are only thirteen
states with laws prohibiting the installation of hidden
video surveillance equipment. The laws that govern these
thirteen states expressly prohibit the installation of
hidden surveillance equipment in places where individuals
have the right to a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Examples of places where individuals have this right to
expect privacy include such areas as bathrooms, locker
rooms, dressing rooms, bedrooms, etc.
Another fact that might surprise you is the fact that in
many states if a crime is captured on tape by a hidden video
camera, the tape is often admissible as evidence in court.
Surprisingly, in many states, you do not even have to obtain
the consent of either of the parties involved. In other
states, receiving the consent of only one party is required.
Despite the lack of strict laws governing the
installation and use of hidden video surveillance equipment,
you should really consult with your local law enforcement to
be certain of the specific regulations governing your area.
This will ensure that you have a clear understanding of the
law so that you are not guilty of violating any existing
statutes. It is always good to know of any potential
violations ahead of time to protect you from costly legal
actions in the future.
In addition to consulting with your local law enforcement
of legal council, you can gather a significant amount of
information on the Internet. By visiting the following
website about
hidden video camera laws, you will be provided more
specific legal details on this topic. This site breaks down
the different eavesdropping, wiretapping, and hidden
surveillance camera laws by state.
It is definitely better to find out ahead of time what
you can and cannot do legally when installing a hidden
surveillance system. A little investigation will go a long
way towards putting your mind at ease.
About the Author
Lynn Bryant is a successful freelance writer and
contributor to Video-Surveillance-Guide.com. Your
definitive guide to video surveillance equipment, CCTV
cameras and wireless security systems for home and business.
Also See:
[ Buyers guide
to 1/2" CCD surveillance cameras ]
[
Both sides of the
controversy surrounding public video surveillance ]
[
Smarthome for retail wireless surveillance cameras for home security ]
[ top of page ]
Related Articles
[ top of page ]
|
