Cobb County, GA Privacy & Surveillance: Security Camera Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies to
- Convenience & package stores
- Recording retention
- 48 hours minimum
- Verification
- Signed affidavit at licensing
Summary
Cobb County requires convenience stores and package stores to keep a working video camera running and retain footage for 48 hours, but sets no rule for residential security cameras.
The licensee of a convenience store or a package store as defined by section 6-1 of the Code of Cobb County, Georgia shall be required to have, at all times that the business is open to the public, an operating and functioning video camera and recording device that records and preserves the activities at all areas of the business where the sale of the business's merchandise takes place. The video record so recorded shall be maintained for 48 hours.
At the time that an applicant seeks the issuance of a business license or a licensee seeks the renewal of an existing business license for a convenience store or a package store the applicant or licensee shall execute an affidavit stating that the business will have, in the case of an application, and has in the case of a renewal, an operating and functioning video camera and recording device that records and preserves the activities at all areas of the business at which the sale of merchandise take place while the business is open to the public. The business license office shall provide the affidavit to be executed by the applicant or the licensee.
(Ord. of 12-9-03)
Secs. 78-48—78-60. - Reserved.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 53).
Full Breakdown
Any licensee of a convenience store or package store, as defined in Code § 6-1, must have an operating video camera recording all areas where merchandise is sold whenever the business is open, with footage kept 48 hours. Applicants and licensees must sign an affidavit confirming compliance when a business license is issued or renewed. The rule targets robbery-prone retail types and does not touch residential or general surveillance cameras.
Violations & Fines
Failing to maintain a functioning camera and 48-hour recording, or to sign the required compliance affidavit at licensing or renewal, is a violation under § 78-47.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cobb County require homeowners to install security cameras?
How long must a Cobb County convenience store keep its camera footage?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Cobb County
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