Vermont
Vermont Laws on Recording in Public
Vermont has no statute restricting recording in public places where no reasonable expectation of privacy exists. The First Amendment protects filming streets, parks, and government proceedings. For audio, federal one-party consent under 18 U.S.C. 2511 applies when you participate in the conversation.
Vermont broadly permits recording in public. No state statute prohibits filming in areas without a reasonable privacy expectation. The First Amendment and Vermont's Open Meeting Law (1 V.S.A. 310-314) provide additional protections.
Public Recording Rights
You can film on streets, sidewalks, parks, government buildings, and at public events. No press credential required. State v. Brooks confirmed no privacy expectation in public settings.
Government Meetings
Act 133 (2024) requires public bodies to record meetings and post recordings for at least 30 days. Act 51 (effective June 9, 2025) updated posting deadlines. The public can record selectboard, city council, school board, and legislative meetings.
Audio in Public
Federal one-party consent applies. If you participate in a conversation, you can record. Public conversations at normal volume carry no privacy expectation.
Private Property
Businesses can set recording rules and ask you to leave. Religious venues and entertainment facilities may restrict recording. Footage captured before being asked to stop is generally legal.
Drone Recording
Drone recording in public is generally permitted subject to FAA rules. Do not record private areas with privacy expectations.
More Vermont Recording Laws
Audio Recording | Video Recording | Voyeurism & Hidden Cameras | Workplace Recording | Recording Police | Phone Call Recording | Security Cameras | Recording in Public | Landlord-Tenant | Dashcam Laws | Schools | Medical Recording
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I record in public in Vermont?
Yes. No statute prohibits public recording. The First Amendment protects this activity.
Can I record a government meeting in Vermont?
Yes. The Open Meeting Law requires public bodies to record meetings and allows public recording.
Can a store tell me to stop recording?
Yes. Businesses are private property. Footage captured before the request is generally legal.
Can I use a drone to record in public?
Yes, subject to FAA rules. Do not record private areas with privacy expectations.
Do I need permission to photograph people in public?
No. Voyeuristic recording under clothing is prohibited (13 V.S.A. 2605), but standard public photography is legal.
Sources and References
- Vermont Open Meeting Law (1 V.S.A. 310-314)(legislature.vermont.gov).gov
- 13 V.S.A. 2605 -- Voyeurism(legislature.vermont.gov).gov
- 18 U.S.C. 2511 -- Federal Wiretap Act(law.cornell.edu)