DeKalb County, GA Privacy & Surveillance: Security Camera Rules (2026)

Section 15-573(a) defines a "convenience store" as a retail establishment under 10,000 square feet primarily selling convenience goods such as food, tobacco, gasoline or non-prescription pharmaceuticals, and a "monitored business" as any other retail establishment the police chief designates after three or more calls for police service within 30 days, or after a serious crime such as armed robbery, aggravated assault or human trafficking is found to have occurred there. Section 15-573(b) requires those businesses to keep a video surveillance system (VSS) in continuous, working operation around the clock, request a director inspection before approval, and post a notice at the register that the premises are monitored.

Section 15-573(c) sets minimum camera placement: at least one camera each at every register, entrance/exit, fuel pump, loading dock, and parking lot and its entrances, all unobstructed. Section 15-573(d) sets technical minimums of 4MP (2560x1440) resolution, 24 frames per second, infrared/night-vision capability, and a fixed (non-panning) mount, with footage retained at least 30 days and produced to the police chief or another peace officer within 72 hours of a request or warrant. Section 15-573(f) gives noncompliant stores 60 days to come into compliance after notice, with a provisional business license available in the interim, and Section 15-573(g) grandfathers existing systems for 180 days after any annual standards update published each May 1.

Section 15-573(i) applies the same technical standards to hotels and motels under Section 18-141(f). All convenience stores had to reach full compliance by June 30, 2023.