Do I need Planning Permission to install CCTV?

Although there are a number of important regulations surrounding the installation of CCTV cameras, one thing you’ll rarely need to do is apply for planning permission. However, as always, there are exceptions – the most common being if you want to attach them to a listed building or if you are in a conservation area – so it would always be worth checking with your local authority first to be on the safe side.

Other exceptions that might mean planning permission would be needed – but that are most likely to apply to large commercial companies – include:

• More than four cameras on any one side of a building
• More than 16 cameras on any single property
• Cameras on the same property being within 10 metres of each other 
• Using cameras measuring more than 75cm x 25cm x 25cm (including the housing)
• Cameras that are less than 2.5 metres from the ground or that protrude more than 1 metre from the wall

Other regulations applying to the use of CCTV cameras

We’ve written before about some of the rules for CCTV in businesses; but while we’re talking about planning permission and how, when it does apply, it will often be as a result of where those cameras are placed, it’s worth covering some of the other regulations you need to be aware of. 

• Where can I not place my CCTV cameras?

You should never locate CCTV cameras in private places such as changing rooms and toilets. If you’re in a residential area, you should particularly avoid pointing your cameras at other people’s homes and gardens, but any public spaces and streets are also best avoided.

Wherever you do locate your cameras, you need to justify their use by completing a data protection impact assessment (DPIA). 

• Do I need to tell people about my CCTV cameras?

Yes – wherever you are installing cameras, you also need to put up clearly visible signs that tell people not only that your cameras are there but also why they are there. This latter point is particularly important, because you cannot use your cameras for any other reason than that stated. These signs will be needed whether your cameras are going to be filming members of the public or your own employees.

• Can I fix CCTV cameras anywhere other than on my own property?

No – at least, not without the written permission of whoever’s property it is. If you want to fix your cameras onto a public building, tree or streetlight so that it points at your property, you’ll need to get permission from your local authority.

Scutum London supplies, installs and maintains top-quality CCTV cameras for businesses and organisations across the South East, including in and around London and Surrey. We’re your local experts in all kinds of security solutions, from access control and door entry systems to intruder alarms and surveillance cameras.

Want to know more about how we can help you protect your business against crime and vandalism? Get in touch with our team of security professionals today and ask for a free site visit and cost-effective quotation.