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December 11, 2023

What You Should Know About Home Security Camera Laws In Kalamazoo

You want your family to be fully secured, and know that surveillance systems are important. The mere sight of a camera fixed to the side of your house is enough to frighten away many potential intruders. But are there legal restrictions on where you may install them and how to use them? For the most part, you don’t have anything to worry about, but there are a few things you should know about home security camera laws.

Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy Guidelines

Although there aren’t designated federal home security camera laws, it is lawfully accepted that all people have a reasonable expectation of privacy in certain areas. For instance, you would expect bedrooms, bathrooms and locker rooms to be private and not acceptable for video recording. On the other hand, places such as the front or perimeter of your house are public and subject to video surveillance. As a general rule, people don’t have a right to privacy in pubilc settings.

Where Is Your Kalamazoo Camera Aimed?

Another aspect to think about is how you position your cameras. Even when you have a camera in a public setting, like fixed to your garage, you can’t position it at a private location like your neighbor’s interior. Inside your own house, it’s wise to abstain from placing cameras in bedrooms (especially the ones frequented by guests) and bathrooms.

While all states comply with the reasonable expectation of privacy guidelines, there might be additional laws in regards to the use of surveillance cameras. If you have cameras in public places and for the explicit purpose of security, you shouldn’t have anything to fret over, but it’s always smart to be informed of your state’s exact restrictions.

Can You Record Audio From Surveillance Systems In Kalamazoo?

The audio aspect of surveillance systems is trickier as it largely depends on the state you live in. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) permits recording audio of private exchanges when one party agrees. So, if you have a camera with audio functionality at your home and agree to recording conversations, you can legally do so. Taking that into account, many states have gone beyond the one-party consent law and now call for consent from all parties. Ensure you are aware of what is permitted in your state.

Why Use Video Cameras At Your Kalamazoo Property?

You have a legal right to operate cameras at your property, and there are good reasons to do so. Burglars are much less inclined to break into your property if they notice video cameras, as they don’t want to be captured on a recording. If a robbery does take place, your video can be essential to the criminal investigation. But you may use surveillance devices for much more. You can monitor your darling newborn, check in on your furry friends, and get visual confirmation your kids have returned from school.

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

Install the best video cameras in Kalamazoo by contacting the specialists at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our technicians will make sure your devices are installed properly and function as intended. Call today at (269) 224-1045 to schedule your appointment.