Security Camera Laws in Houston

• • • What is illegal surveillance in Houston, TX?
    • What are the security camera notification requirements in Houston, TX?
    • Is it legal to record a conversation in Houston, TX?
    • Can my neighbor have a camera pointed at my property in Houston, TX?
    • Are businesses required to post surveillance signs in Houston, TX?
    • Is it legal to have cameras in your apartment in Houston, TX?

Security Camera Laws in Houston

• Texas requires any company that installs alarms, CCTV or electronic access control be licensed and registered.
• Texas Penal Code sec. 21.15 is the state-level law that provides security camera guidance for landlords.
• Avoid audio! Texas has very specific laws regarding when and where it is legal to record video or audio.
• Customers that exceed three false alarms or two false, panic calls in a 12-month period are subject to service fees and/or fines.
• In Texas, property owners do retain the right to install cameras throughout their rental properties.

Texas, generally known as the Lone Star State, is famous for its food, cities, and unique way of life. Texas is the second-most populated state in the country, with a population of approximately 28 million people.

With such a high crime rate, Texas’ ability to recruit businesses and retain the staff required to run them is contingent on a strong commitment to security.

Security camera regulations and laws vary widely from state to state. We’ve collected a collection of commonly asked questions about video surveillance laws in Houston, Texas to assist you understand better the security environment.

Taking a photo or video of someone’s “intimate region” is illegal in Houston, Texas, according to Texas Penal Code 43.26. It is illegal and referred to as “Invasive Visual Recording” when a person has a “reasonable expectation of privacy,” according to the code. Someone in a public lavatory stall or a store’s clothes changing room, for example.

An unauthorized recording, especially one made with the purpose to commit a felony or conduct a lawsuit, is a felony that can result in civil damages. Additionally, Texas is a One-Party Consent State, which means that at least one party to the recorded conversation must consent.

The Texas Occupations Code establishes certain regulations for home security companies in order to do business in the state or even to be categorized as a “home security provider” in the first place.

The following are some of the most important rules:

• Section 16.02 of the Texas Penal Code State law governing the unlawful use, interception, or disclosure of a wire, oral, or electronic communication.

• Article 18A.001 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure This particular article defines various terms related to wiretapping including “electronic communication” and “oral communication”.

It is illegal to install hidden cameras anywhere, whether on public or private property. As a result, any cameras you set up should be visible. It would also be beneficial to notify your renter that the cameras are operating.

As a result, it’s a good idea to add this clause in your lease or rental agreement to ensure that you’ve informed them.

You may not record or share conversations in which you are not a participant without the permission of at least one individual. State and federal laws, on the other hand, provide an exemption where the person or individuals chatting are doing so in an environment where privacy is not expected.

The simple answer is yes, it is legal; however, you may be able to maintain a suit if your neighbor is pointing his camera directly into your home and you can show that he is intentionally recording an area where you expect privacy; however, having a camera pointed in the general direction of your garage is insufficient to maintain a suit.

Although no two homes are the same, everyone’s property deserves to be safeguarded. Security cameras are an excellent way to increase your sense of security because they provide you with additional eyes on your property at all times. Optimal places you should consider installing a security camera.

Provided that the camera is in a public area, no state compels company owners to post notice alerting employees or customers that they are being watched. Even if they aren’t needed, many company owners put up signage. This is typically done as a consumer service and to dissuade theft and damage.

Yes, renters are normally allowed to utilize the exterior of their buildings and can install security cameras if they do not cause structural damage. A WiFi camera system that does not require drilling or wiring is typically chosen by tenants. Tenants who want a more integrated system usually work with a professional security company to help them through the process.