Concerns About Neighbour Domestic CCTV - Staffordshire Smart Alert

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The Police

Concerns About Neighbour Domestic CCTV

We’ve had some enquiries from residents regarding neighbouring CCTV systems and what is permitted.

If a resident installs CCTV on their property, they are generally allowed to do so for the purpose of protecting their home. However, there are important rules to be aware of:

🎥 When CCTV may be an issue

If a camera:

Captures images beyond the owner’s boundary (e.g. public paths, roads, or neighbouring properties),
then data protection laws apply (UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018).

📋 What the CCTV owner must do (ICO guidance)

According to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), the person using CCTV must:

Have a clear reason for recording (e.g. crime prevention)

Ensure cameras are positioned to minimise intrusion into neighbours’ privacy

Put up signage stating CCTV is in operation

Only keep footage for as long as necessary

Be able to provide footage if requested (subject access request)

Keep recordings secure

🏡 If you are concerned about a neighbour’s CCTV:

We recommend the following steps:

Speak to your neighbour first, if you feel comfortable – many concerns can be resolved informally

Ask if they can:

Adjust the camera angle
Use privacy masking to block out your property

If concerns remain, you can contact the ICO for advice or to make a complaint

🔗 ICO Contact Information:

Website: https://ico.org.uk

Helpline: 0303 123 1113

👮 Police involvement

Police are unlikely to take action unless:

The CCTV is being used for harassment or criminal activity

Or forms part of an ongoing dispute escalating into offences

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Message Sent By
Deryn Small
(Staffordshire Police, PCSO, Lichfield)

Neighbourhood Alert

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