TL;DR
Yes, it is legal to use indoor security cameras in your own home in Germany and the EU, as long as you only record your private property and don't capture public spaces or neighbors. GDPR applies to any footage containing identifiable people.
What You CAN Record
✅ Inside your own apartment or house
✅ Your private garden or balcony
✅ Your private garage or parking space
✅ Your private entrance (if not shared)
What You CANNOT Record
❌ Public sidewalks or streets
❌ Neighbor's property or windows
❌ Shared hallways in apartment buildings (without consent)
❌ Public areas of your building (lobby, stairwell)
❌ Employees without their written consent
German-Specific Rules (§6b BDSG)
Germany has additional protections under the Federal Data Protection Act:
- Video surveillance sign required — if cameras are visible, you must post a notice
- Proportionality — surveillance must be proportional to the security need
- Data minimization — record only what's necessary
- Retention limits — delete footage after 48-72 hours unless needed for evidence
GDPR Compliance Checklist for Home Cameras
- ☐ Camera only covers your private space
- ☐ Footage stored locally or with a compliant cloud provider
- ☐ Family members and regular visitors are informed
- ☐ Footage deleted after reasonable period (48-72 hours recommended)
- ☐ No audio recording without consent (two-party consent applies in Germany)
- ☐ If renting, check your lease for camera restrictions
Renters' Rights
Tenants in Germany CAN install cameras inside their rented apartment. Landlords cannot prohibit indoor surveillance of your private space. However:
- You cannot modify the property (no drilling) — use E27 or tabletop cameras
- You cannot record shared areas
- You must remove all equipment when moving out
FAQ
Q: Can my landlord install cameras in common areas?
A: Only with tenant consent or if there's a documented security need. Cameras in hallways require a formal decision process.
Q: Can I use camera footage as evidence in court?
A: Yes, footage recorded within legal boundaries (your own property) is generally admissible. Consult a lawyer for specific cases.
Q: Do I need to register my camera with authorities?
A: No. Home surveillance for personal use doesn't require registration. Commercial use may require notification to the data protection authority.
