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

May 28, 2024
Outdoor surveillance camera overlooking residential property

Are you considering upgrading your home security with video surveillance but want to make certain you grasp the law that governs their usage? It’s smart to know if you’re in compliance, and reinforcing 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? Discover what you should know.

Understanding the reasonable expectation of privacy

A noteworthy principle that governs the use of inside and outside video cameras is the reasonable expectation of privacy. It has been accepted from a legal standpoint that people should expect privacy in specific locations. This reasonable expectation of privacy includes areas like bathrooms, bedrooms, and locker rooms. However, it’s perfectly reasonable to record video in public spaces like outside your home.

Avoid snooping and focus on home security in Louisville

Although laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home use give you the right to put up outside cameras, that doesn’t allow you to aim them at your neighbor’s bedroom or bathroom window. Always be heedful of where your surveillance devices are pointing. Whenever you use inside cameras, avoid placing them in bedrooms and bathrooms, as friends and guests will have an expectation of privacy.

It’s worth mentioning that state laws in regards to surveillance video in public settings can fluctuate. Even so, if you’re using cameras at your residence for the explicit purpose of security, you won’t have anything to worry about.

What about audio recordings in Louisville?

Audio recordings from surveillance cameras is 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. The majority of states adhere to the one-party consent rule, but various others mandate all-party authorization in certain situations. Take a look at the breakdown by state. If you are located in a state that permits one-party consent and are taking part in the exchange, you can legally record audio without getting permission from the other participants.

What are the best possibilities for outside cameras in Louisville?

Video equipment has advanced noticeably in recent times. You now can opt for helpful wireless models and access valuable features like HD image quality, night vision, wide-angle views, and motion sensing. Some leading video cameras even have built-in deterrents. For example, some surveillance systems scare off prowlers by illuminating an LED light and sounding an alarm. This is a smart way to keep unwanted visitors away.

Install a Vivint home security system with top-end surveillance

Elevate your home security and effectively deter crime with an advanced security system from Vivint. We offer some of the leading surveillance devices in Louisville, including options with active deterrents. You’ll appreciate this additional security layer and the instant alerts you receive whenever a device perceives dubious behavior. Call (502) 483-0778 to see what we have to offer.