Let’s talk about microphones on security cameras. Everyone’s used to the idea of recording video, but once you start picking up sound, that’s a whole different ballgame. I can’t count how many times someone asked me, “Is it legal to record audio with my cameras?” And honestly, it depends.
This isn’t going to be some boring legal blog. I’m going to break it down in plain terms based on what I’ve seen working with installers, business owners, and homeowners every day. We’ll cover how it works in Oklahoma, what the feds say, and what to watch out for in other states too.
Oklahoma: One-Party Consent Means You’re Mostly in the Clear
Here in Oklahoma, we’re what’s called a one-party consent state. That means as long as one person in the conversation knows it’s being recorded, it’s legal. So if you’re involved in the conversation yourself, no problem. You don’t need to tell the other person you’re recording.
But here’s where people mess up. Let’s say you’ve got a camera in the break room at your business, and it’s recording audio. Two employees are having a private conversation, and neither of them know they’re being recorded. You’re not part of that conversation—so now you’ve got a problem.
The safest thing to do? Either turn off audio recording or put up signs that clearly say cameras may record sound. It’s not just about legal protection, it’s about being upfront. People appreciate the heads up.
What About Federal Law?
Even if your state’s fine with it, federal law still applies. The big one is the Wiretap Act, and it also allows one-party consent, but it gets stricter when there’s a “reasonable expectation of privacy.”
In other words, if someone’s in a place where they feel like they shouldn’t be recorded, like a private office, dressing room, or someone’s house, federal law says leave the mic off. If you’re recording people in sensitive spaces, even accidentally, that’s where you get into hot water fast.
I always tell folks: just because the camera has a mic doesn’t mean you need to use it.
What If You’re Outside Oklahoma?
Now here’s the kicker. Some states are two-party or all-party consent, which means everyone involved in the conversation has to know they’re being recorded. If you’re working across state lines, or installing systems in places like California, Florida, Massachusetts, or Illinois, you’ve got to check their laws before flipping that mic on.
Quick rule of thumb:
If you’re not 100% sure it’s legal to record sound, just don’t. Stick to video. You’ll still have the evidence you need if something goes wrong, and you won’t be risking a lawsuit.
Real Talk From Skip
I’ve seen people get excited about the fancy new features on their cameras, turn everything on, and then wind up in a legal mess because they didn’t realize recording audio can get tricky. It’s not worth it. Keep it simple. Use the features that make sense, and when it comes to sound, know what you’re getting into.
If you’ve got questions about where to mount cameras, whether you should turn off audio, or how to set things up the right way, LaBass Systems has your back. We’ve done this a thousand times and we’ll walk you through it.