This guide is informational. Always verify how the rules apply to your specific case.
Important: The rules depend a lot on where the camera sits and what it actually captures. This text is general information, not legal advice.
Update 2026: new rules from May 1, 2025
From May 1, 2025, changes to the Camera Surveillance Act apply. The requirement for camera surveillance permits was removed and public actors, especially law enforcement agencies, were given expanded opportunities for camera surveillance. That doesn't mean all camera surveillance is free. Anyone watching must still be able to demonstrate purpose, legal basis, proportionality, information, secure storage
and thinning.For private individuals, the basic question remains practical: does the camera only film the private sphere, or does it capture neighbors, common areas or public place?
Quick rules (rules of thumb)
- On your plot: often okay if in practice the camera only covers your private area.
- Towards the neighbor's plot/public place: then it quickly becomes a privacy issue (GDPR may become relevant) and you need to minimize, delimit and inform.
- Indoor in common areas (stairwells, laundry, community halls): other rules and balance of interests — often this is handled by BRF/landlord/business.
What usually determines: “does the camera capture other than your private sphere?”
If the camera films people passing on sidewalk, neighbor's entrance, common areas or the like, it's no longer “just private.” Then you should be extra careful: limit the image, avoid noise, and avoid unnecessary storage
.Do this if you set up a camera (checklist)
- Narrow the image: angle down, zoom in, apply masking/privacy zones if your camera supports it.
- Avoid noise unless you have a very strong reason (noise increases privacy risk).
- Short storage: do not save longer than necessary. Avoid 'just because' .
- Security: change default passwords, use 2FA, update firmware, and restrict access.
- Inform: if others can reasonably be caught -- put up clear sign.
FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
div class="bg-purple-50 border-l-4 border-purple-500 p-6 my-8 rounded-r-xl">💡 Tip box: Lesser-known rights in camera surveillance
- Request a balance of interests: Anyone who sets up cameras (including government agencies and BRF) should have a documented balance. Request it in writing .
- IMY as tool: Complain to IMY about cameras filming outside private sphere without justification. IMY may require changes .
- Signage as evidence: Signage strengthens your position if the neighbor complains or if there is a dispute.
- Public place: Cameras filming public space can quickly require a more careful assessment even when the camera is sitting in private.
Can I set up a camera on my property?
Often yes, especially if in practice the camera only films your own private surface. Make sure that it does not “accidentally” bring the sidewalk, street or
Is the camera allowed to film the street outside my house?
It is risky. When the camera captures public space or other people outside your private sphere, privacy protection requirements may become relevant (e.g. GDPR). Always try to delimit so that the camera only covers your own surface
Can I have a camera at the front door (door camera)?
It may be okay if it primarily covers your entrance. If it brings neighbors' doors, stairwells or public walkway, you should reduce image
Do I have to show that I have a camera?
If other people can reasonably be filmed, signage is a good minimum requirement. It reduces the risk of conflict and strengthens your position if someone complains
What do I do if the neighbor has a camera pointed at my plot?
Start practically and matter-of-factly:
- Ask the neighbor to adjust the angle/zones so that your plot is not filmed.
- Ask for a brief written confirmation of what the camera covers and whether it is recording.
- Document: photo of the camera's location and what it seems to be able to see.
- If you do not proceed further: consider complaints to IMY regarding personal data/privacy.
What do I do if my landlord/BRF has cameras in the stairwell?
Ask for written information: purpose, storage time, who has access, and what assessment was made. In common areas, surveillance should normally be clearly justified and
Can an agency camerawaken more than before?
Yes, the legislative changes of May 1, 2025, in particular, gave law enforcement agencies greater opportunities. However, authorities also need to adhere to purpose, proportionality and rules on information and handling of materials
Can I share a recording on social media if someone has done something?
Avoid it. Publishing can become its own privacy violation and create legal problems. Instead, save the material for dialogue, notification or as evidence in process
For those who read under stress
The guide is meant as support when you already have a lot around your head. You don't have to read everything at once: start with the section that matches where you stand today and come back when the next step becomes relevant
.Affairs with authorities are rarely made better by the fact that you carry everything alone. Ask for help from a support person, lawyer or family member if you can — especially before decisions that
have a long impact.Common mistakes that make the case more difficult
- Trust only verbal promises without brief written acknowledgement or follow-up emails.
- Wait to request documents until the conflict is already locked -- then it will be heavier to show what was said.
- Write so long and emotionally driven that the authority stops answering the factual question.
- Miss deadlines for reconsideration or appeal because the decision was not read verbatim.
Mini-checklist before leaving the guide
- Do I have the date, diary/case number and name of the person handling the case (if you know)?
- Do I know what the next step is: reply, request out, recall, appeal or report?
- Have I saved emails and attachments in a place where I can find them in a week?
