What You Need To Understand About Home Security Camera Laws In Baltimore
You want your property to be fully secured, and know that surveillance cameras are a big part of it. Just the existence of a camera fixed to the side of your house is enough to frighten away many trespassers. But are there laws regarding where you may place them and how to use them? For the most part, you don’t have anything to worry about, but there are a couple things you ought to know regarding home security camera laws.
Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy Overview
While there aren’t designated federal home security camera laws, it is lawfully accepted that all citizens have a reasonable expectation of privacy in specific areas. For instance, you would expect bedrooms, locker rooms, and bathrooms to be private and not acceptable for video recording. On the contrary, places such as the side or front of your house are public and subject to surveillance. In general, we don’t have a right to privacy in a public area.
Where Is Your Baltimore Camera Pointed?
One element to contemplate is how you aim your cameras. Even if you have a camera in a public place, like attached to your home’s exterior, you can’t aim it directly at a private area like your neighbor’s interior. In your own house, it’s wise to abstain from placing cameras in bedrooms (particularly those used by houseguests) and bathrooms.
While every state adheres to the reasonable expectation of privacy guidelines, there may be additional laws regarding the usage and placement of surveillance cameras. If you use devices in public places and for the purpose of security, you’ll be in good shape, but it’s always smart to be informed of your state’s specific restrictions.
Are You Allowed Record Audio From Camera Equipment In Baltimore?
The audio element of surveillance systems is trickier as it mostly depends on your location. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) permits recording audio of private conversations when at least one individual consents. So, if you have a camera with audio capability at your home and consent to recording communications, you can legally do so. However, numerous states have exceeded the requirement of one-party consent and now call for consent from two or all parties. Ensure you understand what is allowed in your state.
Why Install Surveillance At Your Baltimore Property?
You are legally allowed to install cameras at your property, and there are excellent reasons for doing so. Vandals are much less likely to consider your home as a target if they notice video cameras, as they don’t want to be caught on tape. If a burglary does occur, your recording can be vital to the criminal investigation. But you can use cameras for other reasons. You might keep watch of your darling newborn, watch over your furry friends, and get proof your kids are home from school.
Get The Best ADT Home Security Cameras In Baltimore From Secure24 Alarm Systems
Install the best surveillance cameras in Baltimore by reaching out to the specialists at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our technicians will make certain your cameras are installed precisely and function as intended. Place a call today at (410) 934-3289 to arrange an appointment.