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December 11, 2023

What To Know About Home Security Camera Laws In Des Moines

You want your property to have the best security, and know that surveillance cameras are an essential element. Just the presence of a camera attached to your house is enough to scare off many trespassers. But are there legal limitations as to where you can install them and how they may be used? All things considered, there’s nothing to worry about, but there are some things you need to know in regards to home security camera laws.

Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy Overview

While there are no designated federal home security camera laws, it is lawfully acknowledged that everyone has a reasonable expectation of privacy in certain locations. To illustrate, you would expect video recording to be prohibited in private places like bathrooms, bedrooms, and locker rooms. Conversely, locations like the front or side of your property are public and open to surveillance. As a general rule, individuals don’t have a lawful right to privacy in a public setting.

Where Do You Have Your Des Moines Camera Directed?

One aspect to contemplate is how your cameras are directed. Even if you have a camera in a public setting, like attached to your home’s exterior, you can’t aim it directly at a private area like your neighbor’s bathroom. Inside your own home, it’s best to abstain from using cameras in bedrooms (particularly ones occupied by visitors) and bathrooms.

While all states comply with the reasonable expectation of privacy stipulations, there may be additional laws regarding the use of surveillance cameras. If you have devices in public places and for the intent of security, you shouldn’t have anything to be concerned about, but it’s always to know your state’s particular requirements.

Can You Record Audio From Surveillance Devices In Des Moines?

The audio facet of surveillance systems is more complicated as it mostly depends on the state you live in. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) authorizes recording audio of private communications when at least one individual agrees. So, if you have an audio-equipped camera on your property and consent to recording communications, you are legally allowed to do so. However, various states have exceeded the one-party consent requirement and now require consent from all parties. Ensure you are aware of what is permitted in your state.

Why Utilize Surveillance At Your Des Moines Residence?

You have a legal right to install cameras at your residence, and there are excellent reasons for doing so. Burglars are much less willing to target your property if they see cameras, as they don’t want to be caught on video. If a robbery does take place, your recording may be vital to the police investigation. But you may employ surveillance devices for even more. You can monitor your darling little one, check in on your four-legged friends, and get validation your kids have returned from school.

Get The Best ADT Surveillance Cameras In Des Moines From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Choose the best surveillance systems in Des Moines by contacting the pros at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our technicians will make certain your cameras are installed precisely and operate as planned. Place a call today at (515) 212-6493 to schedule an appointment.