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

May 28, 2024
Outdoor surveillance camera overlooking residential property

Are you thinking about upgrading your property’s security with video surveillance but want to make sure you grasp the law governing their usage? It’s wise to confirm if you’re compliant, and adding another layer of protection to your residence is a great idea. With that in mind, what are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security? Explore what you need to know.

Keep the reasonable expectation of privacy in mind

A noteworthy principle that covers indoor and exterior video cameras is the reasonable expectation of privacy. It has been legally documented that citizens can expect privacy in certain locations. This reasonable expectation of privacy includes settings like bathrooms, bedrooms, and locker rooms. Yet, it’s completely fine to record video in public spots like outside your property.

Be mindful of neighbors and keep your focus on home security in Detroit

Although laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home usage give you the legal right to place exterior cameras, that doesn’t permit you to aim them at your neighbor’s bathroom or bedroom windows. Always be careful of how your surveillance devices are placed. When using indoor cameras, avoid placing them in bathrooms and bedrooms, as visitors will expect privacy in those spots.

It’s worth noting that state laws in regards to surveillance video in public settings may differ. Even so, if you’re placing cameras on your property for the explicit reason of security, you won’t have anything to be concerned about.

What about audio recordings in Detroit?

Audio recordings from video equipment can be a little more complex. Although a federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) authorizes the recording of private interactions when one party allows, state laws differ. Most states follow the one-party consent guideline, but many mandate all-party consent in various situations. Here’s the breakdown for each state. If you live in a one-party consent state and are participating in the exchange, you may legally record without getting permission from the other participants.

What are the top choices for outdoor cameras in Detroit?

Video equipment has advanced quite a bit in recent times. You now can select convenient wireless versions and get access to valuable features like high-definition imaging, night vision, wide-angle views, and motion activation. Some top models even have built-in theft deterrents. To illustrate, some surveillance systems scare off trespassers by brightening an LED light and sounding an alarm. This functionality is an excellent way to defend against porch pirates and invasions.

Install a Vivint home security system with video surveillance

Upgrade your property’s defense and effectively prevent theft with an advanced home security system from Vivint. We have some of the best video equipment in Detroit, including models with active deterrents. You’ll appreciate this added security and the instant updates you get whenever a camera notices dubious behavior. Contact us at (313) 766-2527 to explore everything we have to offer.