NYC residents may install security cameras on their own property. New York is a one-party consent state for audio recording under NY Penal Law Section 250.00. Video-only surveillance in areas without a reasonable expectation of privacy is generally lawful. Cameras must not be aimed at areas where neighbors have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
New York law permits residential security cameras on your own property for security purposes. Key legal considerations: NY Penal Law Section 250.00 governs eavesdropping and requires at least one-party consent for audio recording. Video-only recording in public-facing areas (sidewalks, driveways, front porches) does not require consent. Cameras must not record areas where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy such as bathrooms, bedrooms visible through windows, or enclosed private yards. Under NY Penal Law Section 250.45, it is illegal to use an imaging device to record a person in a bedroom, bathroom, changing room, or fitting room without consent. NYC has no specific local ordinance requiring registration of residential security cameras, though some community boards have discussed camera registry programs. Condominium and co-op boards may have their own rules about camera installation in common areas.
Illegal surveillance under NY Penal Law Section 250.45 is a Class E felony punishable by up to 4 years in prison. Eavesdropping (unauthorized audio recording) under Section 250.05 is a Class E felony. Civil lawsuits for invasion of privacy may result in monetary damages.
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