What are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security in Baltimore?
Are you considering improving your home security with video surveillance but want to make sure you grasp the law that governs their use? It’s wise to verify if you’re in compliance, and bolstering your home with an additional layer of security is a terrific idea. So, what are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security? See what you ought to know.
Keep the reasonable expectation of privacy under consideration
One of the chief principles governing interior and exterior surveillance cameras is the reasonable expectation of privacy. It has been legally accepted that people should expect privacy in certain locations. This reasonable expectation of privacy includes settings like bedrooms, bathrooms, and locker rooms. Yet, it’s completely fine to have cameras in public spaces like the outside of your home.
Don’t snoop and stay focused on home security in Baltimore
Even though laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home utilization reinforce your legal right to place exterior cameras, that doesn’t mean you should aim them at your neighbor’s bedroom or bathroom windows. Always be careful of how your surveillance devices are positioned. Whenever using inside cameras, keep them out of bedrooms and baths, as guests will have an expectation of privacy.
It’s worth noting that state laws in regards to surveillance equipment in public settings will vary. However, if you’re using cameras at your home for the sole purpose of security, you will be legally protected.
What about audio recordings in Baltimore?
Audio recordings from video equipment is not as straightforward. Despite the fact a federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) authorizes the recording of private discussions when one party allows, state laws fluctuate. Most states abide by the single-party consent stipulation, but many others require all-party authorization in various scenarios. Here’s the breakdown for each state. If you reside in a one-party consent state and are participating in the conversation, you can legally record without seeking permission from the other participants.
What are the best choices for outside cameras in Baltimore?
Surveillance systems have advanced quite a bit in recent years. You may now opt for handy wireless models and access valuable features like HD image quality, night vision, wider viewing angles, and motion detection. Some innovative cameras even come with built-in deterrents. To illustrate, some components frighten off trespassers by flashing an LED light and sounding an alarm. This is an effective way to keep unwanted visitors away.
Install a Vivint home security system with video surveillance
Elevate your home’s protection and effectively dissuade burglary with a comprehensive security system from Vivint. We boast some of the top video equipment in Baltimore, including those with active deterrents. You’ll appreciate this extra layer of security and the automatic alerts you receive when a sensor perceives dubious movement. Give us a call at (410) 231-7697 to see what we have to offer.