Illinois is an all-party consent state for audio recording under the Illinois Eavesdropping Act (720 ILCS 5/14-2). Video-only surveillance is generally lawful on your own property. Audio recording without consent from all parties is a felony. The City of Chicago also operates an extensive public camera network and encourages private camera registration.
Illinois has strict recording laws that significantly impact residential security cameras. The Illinois Eavesdropping Act (720 ILCS 5/14-2) requires consent from all parties for recording private conversations. Key considerations: Video-only recording on your own property (no audio) is generally lawful. Adding audio recording to security cameras requires consent from all parties to any recorded conversation. It is unlawful to make video recordings of another person in their residence without consent (720 ILCS 5/26-4). Cameras must not be aimed at areas where neighbors have a reasonable expectation of privacy. The City of Chicago operates the OEMC camera network and encourages residents to register private cameras through the Chicago Police Department's Private Sector Camera Initiative. Registered cameras can assist law enforcement investigations. Signs notifying of video surveillance are recommended but not strictly required for video-only recording in public-facing areas. Condominium associations may install cameras in common areas with proper notice to residents.
Illegal eavesdropping (unauthorized audio recording) is a Class 4 felony punishable by 1-3 years imprisonment and up to $25,000 fine. Unlawful video recording of a person in their residence is a Class 4 felony. Civil lawsuits may result in actual damages, punitive damages up to $10,000, and attorney's fees.
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