This is general information, not legal advice. If you have a specific situation, speak with a lawyer or the relevant privacy authority.
At home
In general, you may install cameras on your own property to protect it. Some common-sense points apply:
- Point cameras at your own entrances, driveway and yard rather than at a neighbour's windows or private areas
- Avoid recording where people expect privacy, such as bathrooms or changing areas
- Be careful with indoor cameras if you have guests, nannies or tenants, and tell people where cameras are
- Audio is treated differently from video. Recording private conversations without consent can raise serious legal issues, so many people record video only
For businesses
Businesses collect personal information when they record people, so privacy rules may apply to how video is collected, used, secured and kept.
- Have a clear reason for each camera, such as theft prevention or safety
- Post visible signage where cameras operate
- Limit who can view and export footage, and keep the recorder secured
- Set a retention period and delete footage when it is no longer needed
- Avoid cameras in washrooms or changing rooms, and consider staff areas carefully
Good installation helps
Careful placement and sensible settings reduce privacy concerns. Privacy masking can block out areas such as a neighbour's yard. Our guide on how long to keep footage covers retention, and our security camera installation team can help you place cameras sensibly.
Planning a project in Newmarket or the Greater Toronto Area? Contact Pitbull Security Solutions or call 647-895-1815 (answered 24/7) for a free consultation.