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

May 28, 2024
Outdoor surveillance camera overlooking residential property

Thinking about upgrading your property’s security with video cameras but want to make certain you understand the law that governs their use? It’s smart to verify if you’re in compliance, and adding another sort of security to your residence is a terrific idea. Taking that into account, what are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security? See what you ought to know.

Be aware of the reasonable expectation of privacy

A noteworthy principle that governs the use of indoor and outside surveillance cameras is the reasonable expectation of privacy. It has been established from a legal perspective that citizens have a right to privacy in certain locations. This reasonable expectation of privacy includes environments like locker rooms, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Yet, it’s completely acceptable to record video in public areas like outside your home.

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

Although laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home use reinforce your legal right to place exterior cameras, that doesn’t mean you can aim them at your neighbor’s bedroom or shower windows. Always be careful of how your video devices are placed. If you use interior cameras, keep them out of bedrooms and baths, as friends and guests will have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

It’s worth mentioning that state laws pertaining to video equipment in public settings can fluctuate. But, if you’re using cameras at your residence for the sole basis of security, you won’t have anything to be concerned about.

What about audio recordings in Santa Fe?

Audio recordings from video cameras is not as clear-cut. Although a federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) permits the recording of private discussions when just one party consents, state laws differ. Most states adhere to the single-party consent rule, but various others require all-party authorization in various circumstances. Take a look at the breakdown for every state. If you reside in a single-party consent state and are part of the exchange, you may legally record audio without getting permission from the other individuals.

What are the leading choices for outdoor cameras in Santa Fe?

Video equipment has advanced quite a bit in a short time. You may now select helpful wireless models and find valuable features like HD image quality, night vision, wide-angle views, and motion sensing. Some innovative video cameras even come with built-in crime deterrence. For instance, some devices scare off prowlers by flashing an LED light and triggering an alarm. This capability is an effective way to defend against porch pirates and invasions.

Install a Vivint home security system with surveillance cameras

Enhance your home’s security and effectively dissuade theft with a modern security system from Vivint. We have some of the leading video cameras in Santa Fe, including models with active deterrents. You’ll benefit from this added security layer and the instant notifications you receive when a device perceives dubious behavior. Contact us at (505) 605-2552 to explore everything we have to offer.