Residential security cameras are legal in San Bernardino County without a permit. California's privacy laws prohibit recording in areas where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy. Audio recording requires all-party consent under California Penal Code §632.
California law permits residential security camera installation without a permit. Homeowners can record video of their property and publicly visible areas. California Penal Code §647(j) prohibits using a recording device to invade someone's privacy in a place where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy. California is an all-party consent state for audio recording under Penal Code §632 — all parties to a private conversation must consent to be recorded. This means outdoor security cameras should not record private conversations without consent. Many residents use video-only or post signs notifying visitors of recording. Doorbell cameras are popular and legal. San Bernardino County does not require permits for residential security cameras. Some HOAs may have restrictions on camera placement for aesthetic reasons.
Violation of California Penal Code §647(j) is a misdemeanor with up to 6 months in jail and $1,000 fine. Illegal audio recording under §632 carries penalties up to $2,500 fine and/or 1 year in jail for first offense.
Ontario, CA
Outdoor music is regulated under OMC Title 5 Chapter 29 and the special-event permit process. Venues and events with amplified sound need a city permit; resi...
Ontario, CA
Aircraft noise from Ontario International Airport (ONT) is regulated by the FAA, not the city. ONT runs an FAA Part 150 noise compatibility program; federal ...
Ontario, CA
Ontario requires a building permit for masonry walls and any fence over 7 feet under the California Building Code. Retaining walls over 4 feet also require p...
Ontario, CA
Ontario fence requirements include zoning-based heights, setbacks, sight triangles, buffer walls on industrial edges, and CBC structural standards. Pool, ret...
Ontario, CA
Ontario limits residential fence heights under the Development Code. Typical maximums are 6 feet rear/side, 3 feet front, and 42 inches in sight-distance tri...
Ontario, CA
Ontario requires dogs to be leashed off-property under OMC Title 6. Maximum leash length is 6 feet, with owner control required in all public spaces except d...
See how Ontario's security camera rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.