Ohio Security Camera Laws for 2026: What You Need to Know

Note: This post was updated in January 2026 with new information on Ohio security camera laws.

In an ever-changing world, security concerns continue to be a top priority for commercial properties and businesses alike. Ohio, like many other states, has experienced its fair share of criminal activity recently, ranking #20 for Violent Crime Rate in 2025. When adding in nonviolent crimes like theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access, the need to take proactive measures to safeguard people and assets becomes increasingly apparent.

Access control and intrusion detection systems play a pivotal role in fortifying the safety and integrity of organizations. These technologies serve as deliberate deterrents, detect potential risks, and enable rapid responses to issues.

However, since criminal acts not only result in financial losses but can also have detrimental effects on a company's reputation and operations, it is fundamental to guarantee that a modern and effective video surveillance solution is part of your security ecosystem for mitigating illicit behavior and protecting your site.

How to select a Business Surveillance System in Ohio

Security cameras play a key role in commercial security by serving as a visible hindrance to potential wrongdoers. The presence of video cameras signals that unlawful activities are being monitored and recorded, significantly reducing the likelihood of incidents.

Additionally, video surveillance provides invaluable evidence to identify perpetrators and support law enforcement investigations and prosecutions. By capturing crucial footage, businesses can better protect their premises, minimize vulnerabilities, and create a safer environment for employees, customers, and visitors.

Additionally, commercial establishments in Ohio face diverse security risks, including employee misconduct, and internal theft. Hence, a comprehensive security plan that incorporates strategically placed security cameras is vital for maintaining a safe business environment 24/7.

By leveraging advanced technologies, including high-definition video, remote monitoring capabilities, and intelligent analytics, businesses can stay one step ahead of impending threats and respond effectively to issues.

Ohio Laws on Video Recording in the workplace

Installing cameras is legal in Ohio as long as:

1. There is no reasonable expectation of privacy in that location, such as entrances and parking lots.
2. There is a legitimate business reason to record.
3. Employers avoid installing cameras in nonpublic areas, such as restrooms, break rooms, and other places where individuals might expect a degree of privacy.

Lawful justifications for the use of surveillance cameras in the workplace may arise from genuine concerns about safety, security, or internal company investigations.

Further, hidden camera laws in Ohio address the use of cameras to capture video in private places where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy. Specifically, Section 2907.08 dictates that:

No person shall knowingly commit trespass or otherwise secretly or surreptitiously videotape, film, photograph, broadcast, stream, or otherwise record another person, in a place where a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Therefore, to ensure compliance and respect for privacy, business owners and decision-makers are advised to install non-hidden methods of surveillance in public areas, post explicit signage indicating that cameras are in use and recording, and inform employees of recording methods being used, camera locations, and footage storage policies.

Businesses must be mindful of these laws when installing monitoring solutions and make certain they do not infringe on individuals' privacy rights. It is recommended that organizations work with an expert physical security integrator to fully adhere to Ohio state laws while enhancing the security of their premises.

Audio Recordings in Ohio - A One-Party Consent State

Ohio is a one-party consent state for audio surveillance, meaning that at least one party involved in a conversation must provide consent for it to be legally recorded.

The revised Code Section 2933.52 prohibits the interception or attempted interception of wire, oral, or electronic communications without consent. This includes the use of interception devices that transmit signals through wires or interfere with radio communications.

However, there are exceptions to this law. Interception warrants issued under specific circumstances, oral approvals for interceptions, or orders in compliance with federal acts such as the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, the Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986, or the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 are excluded from this prohibition.

Additionally, certain individuals are exempted, such as switchboard operators and employees of wire or electronic communication service providers who intercept communications as part of their job duties.

How to Place Cameras Legally in Ohio Workplaces

Thus, if your security camera system is also recording audio, it must be positioned in publicly accessible areas where individuals have no reasonable expectation of privacy. Placing cameras in locations such as entrances, hallways, or parking lots is generally acceptable since these areas are considered public spaces.

Likewise, it is crucial to avoid installing cameras in places where individuals may reasonably expect privacy, e.g. restrooms, break rooms, or private offices. This demonstrates compliance with the state's audio surveillance laws and respects the privacy rights of your employees. By adhering to these guidelines, businesses can strike a balance between enhancing security and upholding privacy standards within their premises.

Interfering with Employees' Rights

Employees have the right to unionize, to join together to advance their interests, and to refrain from such activity. As a result, it is unlawful for an employer to interfere with, restrain, or coerce employees in the exercise of their rights.

Some employers and labor unions may find it beneficial to address video surveillance and related concerns through the collective bargaining process. This can involve discussing issues including:

• The purpose of video surveillance
• The locations of cameras
• Employee access to recorded footage
• Recorded data retention periods
• Any expected impact on employee privacy

By engaging in collective bargaining, both parties can work together to establish mutually agreeable terms and conditions that serve both the employer and the employees.

Penalties for Violating Ohio Security Camera Laws

Under Ohio law, charges for crimes like voyeurism and illegal interception of communications range from misdemeanors to serious felonies, depending on the circumstances. 

Simple cases, such as secretly watching someone in private, usually result in up to six months of jail time. However, charges can be elevated to "aggravated" status if they involve minors, trespassing, or recording equipment, leading to much steeper fines and years in state prison.

Do You Need a License to Install Security Cameras in Ohio?

Fully licensed contractors like Security 101 carry liability insurance and warranty on all installations. This is important to abide by Ohio’s laws.

A licensed contractor ensures:

1. Knowledgeable installation with proper camera placement to keep your organization protected and compliant in Ohio.
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 Ohio

Effective monitoring is essential to protect your employees, tenants, and property. Despite that, it is equally necessary to comply with Ohio’s video and audio recording laws in order to avoid penalties and expensive liabilities.

To confirm your organization is abiding by the law, we recommend collaborating with an expert security professional who is competent in protecting businesses with sophisticated video surveillance technologies and who knows in-depth the specific laws and regulations at state and local level in cities like Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Dayton.