Chicago Privacy & Surveillance: Doorbell Camera Disclosures Rules (2026)

Illinois Eavesdropping Act 720 ILCS 5/14 makes it a Class 4 felony to record private conversations without consent of all parties. Doorbell cameras that capture audio of conversations on a porch or sidewalk may be lawful if the conversation lacks reasonable privacy expectation but become unlawful when capturing private indoor conversations. Video-only recording in plain view of public areas is permitted on the user's property. Biometric features such as facial recognition trigger BIPA 740 ILCS 14, requiring written notice and consent. Posting cloud-stored video must respect Illinois Right of Publicity. Chicago does not require posted notices, but landlords and HOAs may impose disclosure rules. CPD partners with Ring through limited shared-network programs.