Security cameras on private property are legal in San Diego County. California's two-party consent law (Penal Code §632) applies to audio recording. Video-only surveillance of your own property is legal. Cameras must not point into areas where others have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Homeowners in unincorporated San Diego County may install security cameras without permits. Video-only surveillance of your own property and public-facing areas is lawful. California Penal Code §632 requires all-party consent for recording confidential conversations, so cameras with audio should not capture neighbors' private communications without consent. Penal Code §647(j) prohibits using cameras to invade another's privacy in private spaces. Signage indicating surveillance is strongly recommended to remove expectations of privacy. The California Location Privacy Act (AB 1355) requires consent for sharing location data from residential cameras and mandates deletion of facial recognition and license plate footage within 30 days. HOA communities in San Diego County may have rules about external camera placement and aesthetics.
Illegal audio recording: up to $2,500 per violation and/or one year jail. Invasion of privacy (§647(j)): misdemeanor, up to 6 months jail and/or $1,000 fine.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
See how Carlsbad's security camera rules rules stack up against other locations.
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