Vivint Authorized Retailer Indianapolis
Smart Security Specialists -- Your Vivint Authorized Dealer Covering Indy, Carmel, Fishers & All Of Central Indiana

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

May 28, 2024
Outdoor surveillance camera overlooking residential property

Are you considering upgrading your property’s security with surveillance equipment but want to make sure you grasp the law governing their usage? It’s sensible to know if you’re compliant, and bolstering your home with an added layer of security is a great idea. Taking that into account, what are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security? See what you need to know.

Keep the reasonable expectation of privacy under consideration

A core principle that governs the use of interior and outside surveillance cameras is the reasonable expectation of privacy. It has been documented from a legal perspective that citizens should expect privacy in specific locations. This reasonable expectation of privacy extends to settings like locker rooms, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Yet, it’s totally fine to install cameras in public spaces like outside your home.

Avoid snooping and keep your focus on home security in Indianapolis

Although laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home utilization reinforce your legal right to put up outdoor cameras, that doesn’t allow you to point them at your neighbor’s bathroom or bedroom windows. Always be careful of how your video devices are situated. Whenever you use indoor cameras, they should stay out of bedrooms and bathrooms, as visitors will have a warranted expectation of privacy.

It’s worth mentioning that state laws in regards to video equipment in public settings will vary. Even so, if you’re using cameras at your home for the explicit reason of security, you will be legally protected.

What about audio recordings in Indianapolis?

Audio recordings from video equipment is not as straightforward. Even though a federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) allows the recording of private interactions when just one party allows, state laws differ. The majority of states abide by the single-party consent guideline, but many require all-party permission in some scenarios. Review the breakdown for each state. If you reside in a state that authorizes single-party consent and are part of the discussion, you may legally record audio without getting permission from the other parties.

What are the best options for exterior cameras in Indianapolis?

Video cameras have come a long way in recent times. You can now choose convenient wireless versions and find beneficial features like HD image quality, night vision, wide-angle views, and motion detection. Some leading cameras even have built-in crime deterrence. For instance, some devices scare off trespassers by flashing an LED light and initiating an alarm. This functionality is an effective way to protect against invasion.

Customize your Vivint home security with surveillance cameras

Upgrade your property’s defense and effectively deter crime with a modern security system from Vivint. We offer some of the top video cameras in Indianapolis, including those with active deterrents. You’ll appreciate this added security layer and the instant notifications you get if a sensor detects suspicious behavior. Give us a call at (317) 978-5706 to explore everything we have to offer.