Star of CCTV
Question
A neighbour has set up a CCTV camera looking straight into my property. Is this legal?
Answer
Before getting lawyers or the police involved it is probably best to start by explaining your concerns to your neighbour and asking them to move the camera so that it doesn't point directly into your property.
The use of CCTV cameras by companies is covered by the Data Protection Act (DPA) but the use of CCTV cameras by individuals for home security is not covered by the DPA or by the Information Commissioner's guidelines.
Disclosure of CCTV images to a third party without your consent might constitute a breach of confidence. It might also take you outside the scope of the DPA's 'domestic purposes exemption', in which case you may wish to seek advice from the Information Commissioner. You may wish to check with your local authority whether any planning restrictions apply to the use of CCTV cameras.
Other possible options might include taking action for nuisance or harassment or seeking a court order. If you feel you need to take the matter further you can go to your local Citizens' Advice Bureau (CAB) for information and advice.
Updated: 15/01/2009
Question answered by CAB
