Seattle allows residential security cameras on private property but Washington's strict two-party consent law (RCW 9.73.030) applies to audio recording. Video-only recording of public areas is generally permitted. Cameras must not record areas where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Residential security cameras are permitted in Seattle without any city permit or registration requirement. Property owners may install cameras covering their own property and areas visible from public vantage points (driveways, front yards, sidewalks). However, Washington State is a two-party (all-party) consent state under RCW 9.73.030, meaning audio recording of private conversations requires consent from all parties. Video-only surveillance of publicly visible areas does not require consent. Cameras must not be aimed at areas where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as inside a neighbor's home, bathrooms, or enclosed backyards with privacy fencing. Seattle has adopted a Surveillance Ordinance (SMC 14.18) regulating city government use of surveillance technology, though this applies to municipal agencies rather than private homeowners. Ring doorbell cameras and similar devices are legal but audio recording features should be configured carefully to comply with state law. Violating RCW 9.73.030 is a gross misdemeanor.
Illegal audio recording: gross misdemeanor under RCW 9.73.030. Civil liability for invasion of privacy. Illegally recorded conversations are inadmissible in court.
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