North Carolina Security Camera Laws for 2025: What You Need to Know Now

Navigating the legal restrictions for surveillance can be complex, but adhering to North Carolina security camera laws is critical for businesses operating in the Tar Heel State. Installing a system to protect your assets is a smart move, but improper placement or the inclusion of audio recording can quickly turn a security measure into a Class H felony.

This guide focuses on the specific regulations impacting surveillance on commercial properties, covering everything from placement and privacy expectations to the crucial difference between video-only and audio-inclusive systems.

How to Select a Commercial Surveillance System in North Carolina

There are several decisions to make when selecting a video surveillance system for your business. Some key factors to consider when evaluating the options include:

• Camera type and coverage
• Video quality and storage
• Real-time monitoring and alerts
• Integration with access control
• Audit and reporting tools
• Scalability and support

It is especially important, particularly in North Carolina, for businesses to understand what they can and cannot do to ensure their employees’ safety, while also protecting both company assets and personnel privacy.

North Carolina Surveillance Camera Laws Explained 

When it comes to video recording without audio, North Carolina statutory law generally does not place limits on the use of surveillance cameras. The primary legal constraint for commercial security camera placement is the reasonable expectation of privacy.

The Reasonable Expectation of Privacy in North Carolina

The core principle that determines the legality of surveillance in North Carolina is whether the area being recorded is one where a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy. Some examples of areas where surveillance is generally permitted would be:

• Parking lots
• Public entrances
• Customer service desks
• Common areas 

Conversely, some areas where recording with cameras is generally prohibited are:

• Restrooms
• Changing rooms
• Employee break rooms (especially under certain conditions)

Ignoring these restrictions and continuing to record in settings like these can lead to severe criminal penalties.

North Carolina Recording Laws: One Party Consent and Audio Laws

The most critical distinction for any business installing a security system in North Carolina is between video-only recording and a system that includes audio.

North Carolina is classified as a “one-party consent” state under its Electronic Surveillance Act (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-286 et seq.). This means that for an audio recording to be legal, only one party to the conversation must be aware of and consent to the recording.

Is It Illegal for a Business to Record a Conversation in North Carolina?

For a business, the one-party consent rule presents a significant challenge:

1. If the business owner or an employee who is a party to the conversation records it, it is generally legal.
2. If the business records a conversation where neither party has consented, it is generally illegal.

This is a major risk for commercial systems, because if a surveillance camera is placed in an area that records audio of two customers discussing business matters (or a customer and an agent of some kind), and the recording device is not a party to that conversation, the recording is technically a violation of the law.

To comply with North Carolina recording consent laws and to mitigate risk, commercial businesses should:

• Disable or Mute Audio: For cameras placed in areas where customers and/or employees may have private conversations (waiting areas, consultation rooms, etc.), the audio recording function should be permanently disabled.
• Post Clear Notice: If you choose to keep the audio active in an employee-only area (and you, as the employer, are considered the consenting party), you must clearly inform your employees and visitors that these conversations are being recorded through prominently-placed signage.

Violations of the state's Electronic Surveillance Act are a serious offense, classified as a Class H felony, and can lead to civil lawsuits for damages.

Do You Need a License to Install Security Cameras in North Carolina?

If your business plans include hiring a professional contractor to install or maintain your security camera system, you must ensure they are properly licensed in North Carolina.

State law in NC requires agents who work with burglar alarms or video surveillance systems to be licensed. This licensing ensures that the installer is trained, qualified, and trustworthy, protecting you and your business from potentially shoddy work or improper installation.

To be licensed, the agent must have at least two years of experience or complete the Certified Alarm Technician Level I course, provide references, and pass a background check. Depending on the security system being installed, a Low Voltage (SP-LV) license may also be necessary.

Beyond legal compliance, having a licensed commercial security integrator like Security 101 install your system ensures:

1. Knowledgeable installation with proper camera placement to keep your organization secure and compliant.
2. Safe installation to protect against electrical issues and camera failure.
3. Recourse through your state licensing entity if the installer does a poor job.
4. Protection against scammers, fraud, and criminals who use security camera installation as a cover.

Lawful Use of Video Surveillance in North Carolina

Consistent monitoring is an important part of a plan that protects your employees and property. However, complying with North Carolina’s laws in order to avoid penalties and expensive liabilities is just as important as an airtight coverage plan.

To ensure your organization is abiding by the law, it is key to closely collaborate with an expert security professional, competent in protecting businesses with sophisticated video surveillance technologies and who knows in depth the specific laws and regulations at the state and local level in North Carolina (Charlotte and Raleigh).