Installing a wireless IP camera surveillance system in your business increases security and provides protection, but how far can surveillance really go? 

Businesses turn to surveillance systems to better protect their property and the people within it, because, not only does it reduce theft, but it provides valuable evidence in criminal cases and may even increase your business’s ROI! But, are there any restrictions on security cameras in your place of business?

At Yari Tech, we provide IP camera security to businesses so they can stay bust with the work that needs to get done and not have to worry about security! Learn more about the US surveillance laws in today’s post and what they mean for your business.  

IP Security Cameras And Your Business

If you own a business, you have every right to install security cameras to better protect and secure the facility, but there are some laws and guidelines that are important for you to know!

US Laws And Your IP Surveillance System

There are few restrictions when it comes to what you can record at your business and you’re allowed to have public cameras, so as long as a patron’s privacy isn’t being violated. So where can’t you place security cameras:

  • Bathrooms
  • Hotel rooms
  • Bedrooms
  • Shower areas
  • Locker rooms 
  • Changing rooms

While the above is mandated federally, it’s important to look into your state laws because each state has jurisdiction over audio recordings, privacy, and the placement of security cameras, so you’ll need to know and follow those as well. 

It’s also important to mention that it is illegal to capture video or audio with the purpose of blackmail or ill intent. 

The Difference In Audio Vs. Visual

In the eyes of the law, audio and visual entities are not treated equally. When it comes to video, you are typically allowed to set up a hidden camera and record surveillance on your business without the consent of those in on camera, whereas with audio you have to abide in the Federal Wiretap Act and The Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986. Again, audio and visual laws will differ from state to state, so it’s important to know what yours are. 

Security Cameras In Your Business

Security is a major obligation of your business, so it only makes sense to invest in IP camera systems for the safety of your property. While video surveillance laws are unique to the state, sometimes you can run into legality issues, such as what images are being captured. 

Workplace Privacy Laws

While it’s one thing to have surveillance in a cash counting room or general cameras up around your store, it can walk the line of becoming illegal if you’re recording audio or visual without the consent of your employees, especially in places such as the elevator and other private enclosed areas. 

Security Camera Legitimacy

When it comes to the security cameras you install, there has to be a legitimacy to what and who you’re monitoring. For example, installing a security camera where money transactions happen makes total sense, but installing one in a small office where no money is involved, may be a little questionable. 

Residential Security Camera Laws

While many businesses remain in a business park, there are some small business that are in a neighborhood, and these residential surveillance laws may affect you. 

For businesses, and as a homeowner, installing IP surveillance is a part of how you keep your property secure — they deter burglars and people who might abuse the system (caretakers, nannies, babysitters, etc). With security cameras in place, you can obtain evidence of criminal activity. While you can place security cameras on your property where and how you want them placed, there are some things you need to consider. 

Pointing a camera inside or into a neighbor’s backyard is illegal.

This is a no-brainer — you can have a security system that operates on your property, recording the comings and goings, but once it has anything to do with surveillance on your neighbor’s property, it’s illegal. 

Don’t direct cameras at your neighbors, just don’t!

Surveillance in your home comes with some stipulations. 

One might think that because it’s your home you can record anything you want, but this is false. While you have a lot of freedom of where you install your security camera, you still can’t take liberties and install them in your bathrooms. 

And if you have outbuildings where people may work or a guest house, you have to have legal consent from at least one person to abide by the state and federal wiretapping laws. It’s always important to check with state laws because in some states, every person being recorded must provide explicit consent.

Implementing Security Cameras  

The bottom line when installing security cameras in your business or home is to always research and know both the federal and state laws. When you’re an informed citizen you can know that you’re using your security system properly without impeding on others’ rights.  

If you’re looking for IP security, we’re here for that endeavor! After all, not all IP security systems are created equally! When you partner with us our services include IP camera hardware and software installation and a custom-built network video recorded to keep your property secure! Our IP security cameras come in a variety of functions such as 360, bullet, dome, pan-tilt, thermal, box, and a license plate reader to assist all your needs in keeping your facility secure. 

For more information on our surveillance camera systems, reach out to us today!