What are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security in Birmingham?
Are you considering updating your home’s security with surveillance equipment but want to make sure you understand the law regarding their usage? It’s wise to know if you’re legally compliant, and fortifying your home with an additional layer of security is a great idea. So, what are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security? Discover what you need to know.
Keep the reasonable expectation of privacy in mind
One of the chief principles relating to interior and outdoor video cameras is the reasonable expectation of privacy. It has been legally established that citizens can expect privacy in specific locations. This reasonable expectation of privacy extends to environments like changing areas, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Yet, it’s totally fine to record video in public areas like outside your home.
Be mindful of neighbors and stay focused on home security in Birmingham
Even though laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home use reinforce your right to place outside cameras, that doesn’t authorize you to point them at your neighbor’s bathroom or bedroom windows. Always be careful of how your surveillance components are positioned. When you have interior cameras, avoid placing them in bedrooms and bathrooms, as visitors will expect privacy in those places.
It’s important to note that state laws pertaining to video equipment in public areas may differ. But, if you’re placing cameras on your property for the clear purpose of security, you will be legally protected.
What about audio recordings in Birmingham?
Audio recordings from video equipment can get a little trickier. Although a federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) allows the recording of private conversations when just one party agrees, state laws differ. Most states follow the single-party consent rule, but many demand all-party permission in certain scenarios. Review the breakdown for every state. If you live in a single-party consent state and are participating in the discussion, you may legally record audio without getting permission from the other participants.
What are the best options for outdoor cameras in Birmingham?
Video cameras have come a long way in a short time. You can now opt for handy wireless options and find valuable features like high-definition imaging, night vision, wider viewing angles, and motion detection. Some leading models even offer built-in theft deterrents. For example, some devices scare off prowlers by brightening an LED light and initiating an alarm. This functionality is an excellent way to keep unwanted visitors away.
Get a Vivint smart home with top-end surveillance
Elevate your home’s protection and effectively deter crime with a comprehensive home security system from Vivint. We have some of the leading video equipment in Birmingham, including options with active deterrents. You’ll enjoy this added security and the automatic alerts you get when a sensor perceives dubious activity. Give us a call at (205) 973-4125 to discover what we have to offer.