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

May 28, 2024
Outdoor surveillance camera overlooking residential property

Thinking about improving your property’s security with video cameras but want to ensure you know the law governing their usage? It’s smart to know if you’re in compliance, and reinforcing your home with an added layer of security is a terrific idea. With that in mind, what are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security? Discover what you ought to know.

Take note of the reasonable expectation of privacy

A core principle that governs the use of indoor and outside surveillance cameras is the reasonable expectation of privacy. It has been accepted from a legal perspective that individuals should expect privacy in specific places. This reasonable expectation of privacy extends to settings like locker rooms, bathrooms, and bedrooms. However, it’s completely acceptable to install cameras in public areas like the exterior of your home.

Avoid snooping and focus on home security in Memphis

While laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home use give you the legal right to place outside cameras, that doesn’t permit you to angle them toward your neighbor’s bedroom or shower windows. Always be careful of where your surveillance devices are directed. Whenever you use interior cameras, avoid placing them in bedrooms and baths, as friends and guests will have an expectation of privacy.

It’s worth noting that state laws in regards to surveillance equipment in public areas may vary. But, if you’re placing cameras at your residence for the explicit basis of security, you will be fine.

Are audio recordings permissible in Memphis?

Audio recordings from video equipment can get somewhat trickier. Even though a federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) allows the recording of private conversations when one party consents, state laws vary. Most states abide by the one-party consent stipulation, but various others mandate all-party consent in some situations. Review the breakdown for every state. If you reside in a state that authorizes single-party consent and are taking part in the discussion, you can legally record audio without asking the other participants.

What are the leading possibilities for outside cameras in Memphis?

Video equipment has advanced noticeably in a short time. You can now choose convenient wireless versions and access valuable features like high-definition imaging, night vision, wide-angle viewing, and motion detection. Some leading cameras even come equipped with built-in deterrents. For example, some surveillance systems frighten off trespassers by illuminating an LED light and triggering an alarm. This is an excellent way to protect against invasion.

Get a Vivint smart home with top-end surveillance

Enhance your home’s protection and effectively dissuade burglary with an advanced smart home from Vivint. We have some of the top video equipment in Memphis, including options with active deterrents. You’ll benefit from this extra layer of security and the prompt notifications you get whenever a camera detects suspicious activity. Give us a call at (901) 763-6618 to see what we have to offer.