Vivint Authorized Retailer Greenville
Smart Security Specialists -- Your Vivint Authorized Dealer Covering Greenville & Surrounding Areas

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

May 28, 2024
Outdoor surveillance camera overlooking residential property

Are you thinking about upgrading your home security with video cameras but want to make sure you understand the law governing their use? It’s smart to verify if you’re legally compliant, and incorporating another form of security to your residence is a fantastic idea. Taking that into account, 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

One of the underlying principles governing interior and exterior video cameras is the reasonable expectation of privacy. It has been legally established that people should expect privacy in certain locations. This reasonable expectation of privacy extends to settings like bedrooms, bathrooms, and locker rooms. However, it’s completely reasonable to have cameras in public spaces like outside your residence.

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

Even though laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home utilization defend your legal right to install outdoor cameras, that doesn’t mean you can aim them at your neighbor’s bedroom or bathroom windows. Always be heedful of where your surveillance components are pointing. Whenever using indoor cameras, they should stay out of bedrooms and bathrooms, as visitors will expect privacy in those spots.

It’s important to note that state laws regarding surveillance video in public areas may differ. But, if you’re placing cameras at your residence for the sole purpose of security, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about.

Are audio recordings legal in Greenville?

Audio recordings from video equipment is not as clear-cut. Even though a federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) authorizes the recording of private interactions when one party agrees, state laws differ. The majority of states adhere to the one-party consent guideline, but various others demand all-party permission in various scenarios. Here’s the breakdown for each state. If you reside in a state that allows single-party consent and are taking part in the exchange, you may legally record without asking the other parties.

What are the leading choices for exterior cameras in Greenville?

Video cameras have advanced noticeably in a short time. You may now choose convenient wireless options and get access to beneficial features like HD image quality, night vision, wide-angle viewing, and motion detection. Some top video cameras even come equipped with built-in crime deterrence. For example, some devices scare off trespassers by illuminating an LED light and triggering an alarm. This functionality 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 prevent burglary with a comprehensive home security system from Vivint. We have some of the best video cameras in Greenville, including models with active deterrents. You’ll appreciate this extra security layer and the automatic alerts you receive whenever a device perceives suspicious behavior. Call (252) 648-6502 to discover what we have to offer.