Vivint Authorized Retailer Manhattan
Smart Security Specialists -- Your Vivint Authorized Dealer Covering Manhattan & Surrounding Areas

What are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security in Manhattan?

May 28, 2024
Outdoor surveillance camera overlooking residential property

Are you considering improving your home security with video surveillance but want to make certain you know the law that governs their usage? It’s sensible to know if you’re legally compliant, and reinforcing your home with an additional layer of security is a terrific idea. Taking that into account, what are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security? Discover what you need to know.

Take note of the reasonable expectation of privacy

A chief principle that relates to indoor and exterior surveillance cameras is the reasonable expectation of privacy. It has been legally accepted that individuals can expect privacy in specific locations. This reasonable expectation of privacy includes areas like bedrooms, bathrooms, and locker rooms. However, it’s totally acceptable to install cameras in public spaces like the outside of your residence.

Be mindful of neighbors and keep your focus on home security in Manhattan

Even though laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home utilization reinforce your right to put up exterior cameras, that doesn’t permit you to point them at your neighbor’s bathroom or bedroom window. Always be heedful of how your video devices are positioned. When you have inside cameras, keep them out of bedrooms and bathrooms, as friends and guests will expect privacy in those places.

It’s important to note that state laws pertaining to surveillance video in public settings may vary. However, if you’re using cameras on your property for the explicit basis of security, you won’t have anything to be concerned about.

Are audio recordings allowed in Manhattan?

Audio recordings from video cameras is not as straightforward. Even though a federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) authorizes the recording of private discussions when a single party agrees, state laws differ. The majority of states follow the one-party consent rule, but various others demand all-party consent in certain scenarios. Here’s the breakdown for every state. If you are located in a state that allows single-party consent and are part of the discussion, you can legally record audio without seeking permission from the other individuals.

What are the leading possibilities for outside cameras in Manhattan?

Video cameras have advanced quite a bit in a short time. You now can select convenient wireless versions and find beneficial features like HD imaging, night vision, wider viewing angles, and motion activation. Some top video cameras even have built-in deterrents. For example, some devices scare off trespassers by illuminating an LED light and triggering an alarm. This is an excellent way to protect against invasion.

Customize your Vivint home security with surveillance cameras

Upgrade your home protection and effectively prevent burglary with a modern smart home from Vivint. We offer some of the best video cameras in Manhattan, including models with active deterrents. You’ll enjoy this extra security and the instant updates you receive whenever a device perceives questionable behavior. Contact us at (332) 208-9869 to discover what we have to offer.