Legal situation surveillance camera - when is it allowed?

Many people want to protect their house or apartment by a surveillance camera against burglary or property damage. Before you install such a camera yourself, however, it is worth taking a look at the legal situation. Read what is and is not allowed when using a surveillance camera.

This is the valid legal situation for the use of surveillance cameras

If you are planning to install a surveillance camera on your house to protect against theft or vandalism, you should inform yourself about the legal situation beforehand. In principle, it is allowed to install a camera to protect your family home and property, but the camera may only cover your own property.

1. This means that you may not point the surveillance camera at your neighbor's property or at common paths or driveways.
2. Also the use of the camera to monitor public streets and roads is not allowed.
3. If you do not observe these rules, you violate the privacy rights of your neighbors and must expect a fine.
4. Even if you only monitor your own property by camera, it is recommended to inform visitors that they are being filmed. This is most easily done by attaching a corresponding sign.

Legal situation surveillance camera: This applies to apartment buildings

If you live in an apartment building, neither you nor your landlord may attach a surveillance camera to shared areas. This applies to both the entrance to the house and the stairwell. If, on the other hand, you would like to install a camera within your apartment or in an area that is only used by you, this is possible without any problems.