Surveillance Camera Laws by State (2026 Guide)
Video-only security cameras are legal in all 50 states, though no single federal law governs their placement. Every state's voyeurism statutes prohibit cameras in bathrooms, bedrooms, and changing rooms. When a camera records audio, state wiretap laws apply: 38 states plus D.C. require one-party consent; 11 states require all-party consent.
Surveillance camera laws vary significantly from state to state. While no federal law regulates general security cameras on private property, every state has voyeurism statutes, wiretapping laws, and privacy protections that govern where cameras can be placed, whether audio can be recorded, and what penalties apply for violations.
This guide links to detailed state-by-state pages covering home security cameras, workplace surveillance, hidden camera laws, audio recording consent, neighbor disputes, nanny cams, and penalties.
Surveillance Camera Laws by State
Camera Laws by Situation
Beyond the state rules above, these national guides answer the most common surveillance camera questions:
- HOA Security Camera Rules covers when a homeowners association can restrict your camera or video doorbell.
- Neighbor Security Camera Laws explains what to do when a neighbor's camera records your property.
- Nanny Cam Laws covers recording a caregiver at home and the audio and private-area limits.
- Workplace Surveillance Camera Laws explains when your employer can record you at work.
- Landlord Security Camera Laws covers what cameras a landlord may install in a rental.