Legal Authorization for Installing CCTV Cameras
With an increasing number of Singaporeans installing CCTV cameras outside their homes and businesses to deter robbery, it’s important to know the city-state’s CCTV regulations to avoid breaking the law and incurring fines. Here’s what you need to know before installing CCTV cameras in Singapore.
Before installing a CCTV system to safeguard your home, workplace, or commercial establishment, you must be aware of the appropriate times to get legal authorization for the installation. Even if you have good intentions, you will be breaching the law if you do not get authorization before placing the camera in certain locations.
In Singapore, you need to obtain permission before placing a CCTV camera pointed at public property, which deters criminals from placing cameras in public areas that may aid in their illicit acts. The authorities cannot refuse you permission to install a CCTV camera outside your gate or workplace unless there is a valid cause.
Places Where Installing CCTV is Permitted Without Permission
CCTV may be installed inside your home without permission. However, you shouldn’t put a CCTV camera in the hallway of your HDB home without the required approval or permit. If you don’t get permission from the authorities, you will be breaking the law if you intend to face the camera on someone else’s property or in a public area. The same holds true for your store or company.
If the camera will be looking inside your office, business, or store, you may install CCTV inside without requesting authorization. Although you don’t need permission to install CCTV to monitor your staff, you must let them know using stickers that are clearly visible. You would be breaking the law if you install CCTV inside your place of business but don’t inform your staff and clients about it.
Locations Where Installing CCTV Cameras Requires Permission
To monitor outside your home or business place, you must apply for a permit before installing CCTV. If you install CCTV to monitor outside your office or home without permission, you will be violating the laws. To get a permit to install CCTV in some of these places, you must show the need for monitoring that space. If your house or business is at risk of theft or has experienced theft before, you should apply for a permit to install CCTV outside your office, store, or home.
Is it Acceptable to Install CCTV that Records Voice?
Installing a voice-recording CCTV without authorization is prohibited. Since it’s unlawful to record conversations without the participants’ permission, even on private land, installing a voice recording CCTV requires a permit.
Things to Take Note of When Installing CCTV
It’s important to note that rules regarding CCTV installation in Singapore may change with time. Therefore, make sure to check with a lawyer for confirmation before trusting this document. You can also get help from the person assisting you with the installation, as they are knowledgeable about CCTV installation rules.
In conclusion, before installing CCTV cameras in Singapore, it’s crucial to understand the regulations in place. Failing to comply with the rules may result in fines or other legal consequences.