We’ve reviewed many excellent indoor security cameras as well as handy wireless cameras filled with features like motion detection and night vision, ready to capture and store video at a moment’s notice, even when you’re not around. Most also include two-way audio features so you can listen in or carry on conversations. But that raises a very important legal question: What does the law say about recording footage or audio inside your home? Are you violating anyone’s privacy rights?
If you’ve ever paused before installing a security camera in your home and wondered if it’s legal to — well, you’re probably well within your rights. But there are also important rules you should know about privacy, and they differ significantly between video and audio. Here are the rules to follow so you stay safe from intruders and lawsuits alike.
Note: In this article, we’re referring to federal laws in the United States. Many countries have similar versions of these guidelines, but it’s always a good idea to check your local legislation if you’re curious.
Is it legal to record video inside your home?
Ring’s app supports live views for free, but video storage will cost extra.
Privacy laws apply to outdoor cams too, with a couple of extra considerations.
Arlo/Amazon
Outdoor security cameras are still on your property (or they should be!) and they typically fall under the same laws as indoor cameras. As long as security cameras generally face public spots like the front your home, sidewalks and streets they fall well within the law. If you’re the owner, you have the right to film your backyard and other parts of your property, too.
However, you cannot film areas where other people have a reasonable expectation of privacy. That means you cannot film a neighbor’s backyard, or angle a camera so that it can record through their windows. Many cameras have privacy zones and other tricks you can use to avoid even the appearance of spying on someone.
The same rules for audio also apply to outdoor cameras. You’ll need one-party or two-party consent to record conversations, and security companies skip that hassle by only allowing live audio. That’s why you can talk through your video doorbell, for instance, but can’t set it up to record conversations.
