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

May 28, 2024
Outdoor surveillance camera overlooking residential property

Thinking about improving your home’s security with surveillance equipment but want to make certain you know the law that governs their use? It’s smart to confirm if you’re compliant, and bolstering your home with another layer of security is a great idea. With that in mind, what are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security? Explore what you should know.

What is the reasonable expectation of privacy?

A noteworthy principle that relates to indoor and outdoor surveillance cameras is the reasonable expectation of privacy. It has been documented from a legal standpoint that individuals have a right to privacy in specific places. This reasonable expectation of privacy extends to areas like changing areas, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Yet, it’s totally acceptable to record video in public areas like the exterior of your home.

Be mindful of neighbors and stay focused on home security in Asheville

Even though laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home use give you the legal right to put up outside cameras, that doesn’t mean you should point them at your neighbor’s bedroom or shower windows. Always be careful of how your surveillance components are positioned. Whenever you use interior cameras, avoid placing them in bedrooms and bathrooms, as visitors will have an expectation of privacy.

It’s important to note that state laws in regards to surveillance video in public places will differ. However, if you’re utilizing cameras at your home for the clear reason of security, you will be fine.

What about audio recordings in Asheville?

Audio recordings from video cameras is a little more convoluted. Even though a federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) authorizes the recording of private conversations when one party agrees, state laws differ. Most states adhere to the single-party consent rule, but many demand all-party authorization in some situations. Take a look at the breakdown for every state. If you reside in a state that allows one-party consent 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 Asheville?

Video equipment has advanced noticeably in recent years. You can now select handy wireless models and find beneficial features like HD image quality, night vision, wide-angle views, and motion detection. Some top models even come equipped with built-in theft deterrents. To illustrate, some devices frighten off intruders by flashing an LED light and triggering an alarm. This functionality is an excellent way to protect against invasion.

Get a Vivint smart home with top-end surveillance

Elevate your home’s protection and effectively prevent burglary with a comprehensive home security system from Vivint. We have some of the best surveillance devices in Asheville, including those with active deterrents. You’ll benefit from this added layer of security and the prompt notifications you get whenever a camera perceives questionable behavior. Contact us at (828) 571-7175 to discover what we have to offer.