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

May 28, 2024
Outdoor surveillance camera overlooking residential property

Are you considering improving your property’s security with video cameras but want to make sure you understand the law governing their usage? It’s smart to confirm if you’re compliant, and introducing another sort of security to your residence is a fantastic idea. So, what are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security? See what you need to know.

Keep the reasonable expectation of privacy in mind

One of the chief principles governing interior and exterior surveillance cameras is the reasonable expectation of privacy. It has been established from a legal perspective that individuals should expect privacy in certain areas. This reasonable expectation of privacy extends to environments like changing areas, bathrooms, and bedrooms. However, it’s perfectly fine to have cameras in public areas like the outside of your property.

Avoid snooping and focus on home security in Athens

Although laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home use defend your legal right to put up exterior cameras, that doesn’t authorize you to point them at your neighbor’s bathroom or bedroom windows. Always be heedful of how your surveillance components are placed. If using interior cameras, keep them out of bathrooms and bedrooms, as friends and guests will expect privacy in those spaces.

It’s worth noting that state laws regarding surveillance video in public settings can vary. However, if you’re placing cameras on your property for the sole basis of security, you won’t have anything to be concerned about.

What about audio recordings in Athens?

Audio recordings from video cameras is not as clear-cut. Although a federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) authorizes the recording of private interactions when a single party agrees, state laws vary. Most states adhere to the one-party consent rule, but many mandate all-party authorization in some scenarios. Review the breakdown for every state. If you live in a single-party consent state and are part of the conversation, you may record audio legally without asking the other parties.

What are the best choices for exterior cameras in Athens?

Video cameras have advanced noticeably in recent times. You may now select helpful wireless models and get access to beneficial features like HD image quality, night vision, wide-angle views, and motion sensing. Some top models even come equipped with built-in crime deterrence. For instance, some surveillance systems scare off trespassers by flashing an LED light and initiating an alarm. This functionality is a smart way to protect against invasion.

Get a Vivint smart home with surveillance cameras

Enhance your home’s security and effectively deter crime with a modern security system from Vivint. We offer some of the leading video cameras in Athens, including those with active deterrents. You’ll benefit from this extra security layer and the instant alerts you receive whenever a camera detects suspicious movement. Give us a call at (706) 800-8603 to see what we have to offer.