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December 11, 2023

What To Understand About Home Security Camera Laws In Harrisburg

You want your property to have the best security, and know that surveillance systems are important. The mere presence of a camera fixed to the front of your house is enough to frighten away many trespassers. But are there laws regarding where you may put them and how to use them? By and large, there’s isn’t much to be concerned about, but there are some things you need to know regarding home security camera laws.

Understanding Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy

Although there are no designated federal home security camera laws, it is lawfully recognized that all citizens have a reasonable expectation of privacy in certain areas. To illustrate, you would expect video recording to be banned in private areas like bathrooms, locker rooms, and bedrooms. On the other hand, places such as the front or perimeter of your residence are public and subject to video surveillance. In general, people don’t have a legal right to privacy in pubilc surroundings.

Where Do You Have Your Harrisburg Camera Aimed?

One element to think about is how you position your cameras. Even if you have a camera in a public setting, like attached to your garage, you can’t point it in the direction of a private setting like your neighbor’s bathroom. In your own residence, it’s smart to keep cameras out of bedrooms (specifically those used by visitors) and bathrooms.

While all states abide by the reasonable expectation of privacy guidelines, there might be other laws concerning the placement and usage of surveillance cameras. If you have devices in public places and for the explicit purpose of security, you’ll be in the clear, but it’s always smart to understand your state’s exact requirements.

Are You Permitted To Record Audio From Camera Equipment In Harrisburg?

The audio element of surveillance systems is not as straightforward as it mostly depends on the state you live in. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) permits recording audio of private conversations when one individual consents. So, if you have an audio-enabled camera at your residence and consent to recording a conversation, you have a legal right to do so. Taking that into account, numerous states have gone past the requirement of one-party consent and now require consent from two or all parties. Be sure you understand what is permitted in your state.

Why Utilize Video Cameras At Your Harrisburg Property?

You are legally allowed to use cameras at your residence, and there are good reasons to do so. Vandals are much less willing to perceive your home as a target if they spot surveillance, as they don’t want to be captured on tape. If a break-in does happen, your video can be vital to the police investigation. But you can employ surveillance systems for much more. You might keep watch of your dearest baby, watch over your furry friends, and get proof your kids are home from school.

Install ADT Surveillance Systems In Harrisburg From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Choose the best surveillance cameras in Harrisburg by contacting the specialists at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service people will make sure your components are installed precisely and run as planned. Give us a call today at (717) 256-1545 to request an appointment.