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

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

May 28, 2024
Outdoor surveillance camera overlooking residential property

Are you thinking about updating your home’s security with surveillance equipment but want to ensure you grasp the law regarding their usage? It’s sensible to verify if you’re legally compliant, and fortifying your home with an added layer of security is a fantastic idea. Taking that into account, what are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security? Discover what you should know.

What is the reasonable expectation of privacy?

One of the underlying principles addressing interior and exterior surveillance cameras is the reasonable expectation of privacy. It has been accepted from a legal perspective that individuals have a right to privacy in certain places. This reasonable expectation of privacy includes areas like bathrooms, bedrooms, and locker rooms. But, it’s totally reasonable to have cameras in public spots like outside your property.

Avoid snooping and keep your focus on home security in Evansville

Although laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home usage reinforce your legal right to place outdoor cameras, that doesn’t mean you can point them at your neighbor’s bathroom or bedroom windows. Always be mindful of where your surveillance components are pointing. Whenever using indoor cameras, keep them out of bedrooms and baths, as guests will expect privacy in those spaces.

It’s important to note that state laws in regards to surveillance video in public settings can vary. But, if you’re using cameras at your residence for the sole basis of security, you shouldn’t have anything to fret about.

What about audio recordings in Evansville?

Audio recordings from video cameras can be a little more convoluted. Even though a federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) authorizes the recording of private discussions when a single party agrees, state laws fluctuate. Most states follow the single-party consent rule, but various others mandate all-party consent in some scenarios. Here’s the breakdown for every state. If you live in a single-party consent state and are part of the exchange, you can legally record audio without asking the other participants.

What are the top choices for exterior cameras in Evansville?

Surveillance systems have advanced noticeably in a short time. You can now opt for helpful wireless versions and get access to valuable features like HD image quality, night vision, wider viewing angles, and motion sensing. Some top cameras even come equipped with built-in deterrents. To illustrate, some surveillance systems scare off prowlers by illuminating an LED light and initiating an alarm. This functionality is an effective way to keep unwanted visitors away.

Get a Vivint smart home with surveillance cameras

Enhance your home’s defense and effectively prevent crime with a modern smart home from Vivint. We boast some of the leading video cameras in Evansville, including options with active deterrents. You’ll enjoy this extra security and the instant alerts you get whenever a camera perceives questionable behavior. Give us a call at (812) 310-5880 to explore everything we have to offer.