Can I call the cops on my WA neighbor for security cameras? See state privacy laws
Everyone has the right to peace of mind.
Sometimes that comes in the form of outdoor security cameras.
What happens if your neighbor’s Ring camera is pointed directly at your property in Washington state? Do they legally have the right to record video of your home or yard?
Here’s what to know:
Where can my neighbor install security cameras?
In Washington state, there’s no legal limit to where outdoor security cameras can be placed.
“One of the most effective tools for home protection is the installation of security cameras, but their placement is critical to ensure maximum coverage and effectiveness,” Caring Real Estate in Bellevue said.
According to the real estate company, “strategic” spots to place cameras include:
- Front doors
- Back doors and side entrances
- Garages
- Driveways
- Backyards
- Outdoor living spaces
- Rooms containing offices, safes and expensive equipment
Can my neighbor record me under Washington law?
In Washington state, it’s illegal to intercept or record private conversations “without first obtaining the consent of all the persons engaged in the conversation.”
You’re also not allowed to record private communications transmitted over the phone, telegraph, radio or another device, the Revised Code of Washington says.
Washington state is a “two-party” consent state, according to Washington Law Help.
That means “you must get permission from everyone being recorded in a private conversation” before hitting “record,” according to the online legal resource, which is maintained by the Northwest Justice Project.
However, you don’t need to get “express consent” to record video or audio if you’re in a “public space or common area with no expectation of privacy,” according to Washington Law Help.
Is my neighbor allowed to shoot video of my property?
Although you have an “expectation of privacy inside your home,” Washington Law Help said, the rules can change once you step outside your door.
“As uncomfortable as it might make you, your neighbor is well within their right to put up security cameras on their property,” home security review site HomeSafe.org said.
That includes cameras that are pointed at your home or yard.
“You can be recorded by anyone at any time, as long as it’s not in gross violation of your rights,” HomeSafe.org said. “That means all areas visible from public spaces — like your driveway or front yard — are considered fair game for recording.”
What should I do if I don’t want to be recorded?
If your neighbor’s security camera setup makes you uncomfortable, HomeSafe.org recommends talking to them first.
“Let them know the situation is making you a little uneasy, and tell them you want to come to a compromise that makes everyone happy,” the home security webiste said. “If your neighbor is a reasonable person, this might be all you need to do.”
Alternately, you can try planting high trees or scrubs to block the camera’s view — or purchasing blinds or curtains to prevent it from peering inside.
“If nothing else works, you might need to get in touch with your local police (department),” HomeSafe.org said. “Call the non-emergency number, and ask them what they recommend.”
Home security experts recommend documenting any interactions with dates, times and specific concerns before calling, and keeping your expectations in check.
Unless your neighbor is doing something “blatantly illegal,” law enforcement officials likely won’t be able to help you, HomeSafe.org said.