Where Not To Put Security Cameras.

Bad Ideas & Legal Issues.

The placement of security cameras is the cornerstone of any effective surveillance system, yet it is often misunderstood. The instinct to monitor every square foot of a property can lead to critical errors in judgment, where the cameras themselves become liabilities rather than assets. True security is not achieved through ubiquitous observation but through intelligent, deliberate placement that respects both practical limitations and legal boundaries. Navigate this issue doesn't have to be complicated, starting with identify the zones where a camera should not be installed simplifies things, as these missteps can render a system ineffective, or at worst result in significant legal repercussions.

Areas of Expected Privacy: Installing cameras in locations where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy is a profound misstep. This includes bathrooms, locker rooms, changing facilities, and private hotel rooms and even rental properties. This is without question a severe ethical issue, but over and above that this practice is illegal in most jurisdictions and can lead to devastating lawsuits, and criminal charges. Remember that privacy should always supersede the desire for surveillance.

Pointing Cameras at Neighbors' Property: A common and problematic placement is aiming a camera beyond your own property line. When your surveillance actively captures your neighbor's windows, yard, or their front door, it can be legally construed as invasion of privacy or even harassment. Be mindful of your cameras view angle and be open to sharing the image your camera produces with your neighbors via screen shot should they be concerned. Many cameras can black out portions of their view angle to allow for privacy concerns to be met, but without a live feed of this outsiders looking in will never know for sure that feature is in use. Your security is important but should not come at the cost of someone else's privacy.

Within Easy Reach: Placing a camera where it can be easily touched is an open invitation for vandalism or theft. A camera mounted on a low fence post, a low wall, or an unsecured corner is vulnerable to being sprayed with paint, physically knocked aside, or simply stolen. Positioning cameras at a height of at least nine feet is a basic rule to mitigate this risk. In an event where optimal placement is unavailable look for an IK10 rating and a lens or dome that is resistant to spray paint.

Inaccessible or Hazardous Locations: While keeping cameras out of reach is wise, placing them in completely inaccessible locations is counterproductive. A camera mounted on a high, sheer wall with no safe means for maintenance will be impossible to maintain. A camera must be placed where it can be periodically cleaned and serviced to remain effective.

Placing cameras requires a certain level of care and consideration. A camera should be easy to reach with the proper equipment but not easily accessible enough to damage. Never place a camera in a location where people have generally come to expect privacy like a change room or bathroom and be mindful of how spaces are used, like HR offices where people will share sensitive information. A well designed system should incorporate a well balanced mix of security and privacy allowing it to keep you safe from real world and legal troubles.