What To Know About Home Security Camera Laws In St. Louis

You want your family to be fully protected, and know that surveillance systems are an essential element. The mere presence of a camera fixed to the front of your house is enough to deter many trespassers. But are there legal limitations as to where you may place them and how to use them? By and large, you don’t have anything to be concerned about, but there are some things you should know regarding home security camera laws.

Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy Guidelines

While there are no particular federal home security camera laws, it is legally accepted that everyone has a reasonable expectation of privacy in certain areas. For instance, you would expect video recording to be forbidden in private areas like locker rooms, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Conversely, areas like the side or front of your property are public and open to video recording. In general, we don’t have a right to privacy in pubilc areas.

Where Is Your St. Louis Camera Pointed?

One element to consider is how you position your cameras. Even when you have a camera in a public setting, like attached to your home’s exterior, you can’t position it toward a private setting like your neighbor’s bedroom. Inside your own house, it’s wise to keep cameras away from bedrooms (specifically those occupied by visitors) and bathrooms.

While all states comply with the reasonable expectation of privacy stipulations, there may be associated laws concerning the use of surveillance cameras. If you have cameras in public locations and for the explicit purpose of security, you shouldn’t have anything to be concerned about, but it’s always wise to know your state’s exact restrictions.

Are You Permitted To Record Audio From Camera Equipment In St. Louis?

The audio element of camera systems is not as straightforward as it largely depends on your location. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) permits recording audio of private exchanges when at least one party approves. So, if you have an audio-equipped camera on your property and agree to recording communications, you are legally allowed to do so. However, various states have exceeded the one-party consent requirement and now call for consent from two or all parties. Make sure you know what is permitted in your state.

Why Use Cameras At Your St. Louis Property?

You are legally permitted to operate cameras at your home, and there are excellent reasons to do so. Burglars are much less inclined to invade your residence if they spot cameras, as they don’t want to be caught on a recording. If a robbery does happen, your recording may be crucial to the criminal investigation. But you may employ cameras for much more. You might monitor your darling newborn, look after your four-legged friends, and get visual confirmation your children are back from school.

Install ADT Surveillance Systems In St. Louis From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Install the best surveillance cameras in St. Louis by turning to the experts at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service people will ensure your components are installed correctly and run as intended. Give us a call today at (314) 274-9817 to request your appointment.