ADT® Authorized Dealer Serving Scranton & Surrounding Areas
Home security camera with house in background
December 11, 2023

What You Should Know About Home Security Camera Laws In Scranton

You want your property to be fully protected, and know that surveillance cameras are an essential element. Just the existence of a camera fixed to the front of your house is enough to deter many potential intruders. But are there legal limitations as to where you may install them and how they may be used? By and large, there’s nothing to fret over, but there are a couple things you ought to know about home security camera laws.

Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy Overview

While there aren’t specific federal home security camera laws, it is legally accepted that all people have a reasonable expectation of privacy in some places. To illustrate, you would expect bathrooms, locker rooms, and bedrooms to be private and off-limits to video recording. Conversely, areas like the side or front of your house are public and open to video surveillance. As a general rule, people don’t have a right to privacy in pubilc settings.

Where Do You Have Your Scranton Camera Aimed?

Another thing to contemplate is how you direct your cameras. Even when you have a camera in a public setting, like fixed to the front of your house, you can’t aim it at a private location like your neighbor’s interior. In your own house, it’s wise to keep cameras away from bedrooms (especially any used by houseguests) and bathrooms.

While every state adheres to the reasonable expectation of privacy guidelines, there could be additional laws regarding the placement and usage of surveillance cameras. If you have devices in public places and for the purpose of security, you’ll be in the clear, but it’s always smart to understand your state’s specific restrictions.

Are You Permitted To Record Audio From Camera Equipment In Scranton?

The audio element of surveillance systems is more complicated as it mostly depends on your location. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) permits recording audio of private communications as long as one party consents. So, if you have a camera with audio functionality on your property and agree to recording a conversation, you are legally allowed to do so. However, many states have exceeded the requirement of one-party consent and now require consent from all parties. Ensure you know what is permitted in your state.

Why Install Cameras At Your Scranton Residence?

You have a legal right to use cameras at your property, and there are multiple reasons to do so. Vandals are much less willing to perceive your home as a target if they spot surveillance, as they won’t want to get caught on a recording. If a robbery does occur, your video may be crucial to the police investigation. But you may employ surveillance systems for even more. You might monitor your precious newborn, watch over your furry friends, and get validation your children are home from school.

Get The Best ADT Home Security Cameras In Scranton From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Install the best surveillance systems in Scranton by reaching out to the experts at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service people will make sure your components are installed properly and run as planned. Call today at (570) 217-8895 to request an appointment.