Florida Rentals: Can I Keep Exterior Cameras on My Rental Property?
If you have security cameras on the front exterior of your Florida rental home, can you leave them in place while a tenant lives there?
Yes—Florida law allows landlords to keep exterior security cameras on a rental property, provided they do not infringe on a tenant’s reasonable expectation of privacy. Cameras should only monitor public or common areas, such as the driveway or front yard, and must not capture images or audio from inside the home or private areas like back patios that are solely for tenant use.
Florida Law on Landlord Surveillance
While Florida’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 83) does not specifically address exterior cameras, other state laws protect tenant privacy rights. Key points:
Florida is a two-party consent state for audio recordings (Florida Statute § 934.03), meaning you cannot record audio of conversations without consent.
Tenants have a right to the “quiet enjoyment” of the property, which includes freedom from unreasonable surveillance inside or in private-use spaces.
Exterior cameras that view only public-facing or common areas are generally permissible.
Where Exterior Cameras Are Typically Allowed
Front doors, entryways, and porches (if visible from the street).
Driveways and parking areas.
Yards and sidewalks visible to the public.
In these locations, there is no legal expectation of privacy under Florida law.
Where Cameras Are Not Allowed
Inside the rental unit, including entryways once the tenant has possession.
Private outdoor areas not visible to the public, such as fenced-in backyards, enclosed patios, or balconies reserved for the tenant’s exclusive use.
Any area where the tenant could reasonably expect privacy.
Pros of Keeping Exterior Cameras
1. Deterrence of Crime
Visible cameras can discourage trespassing, theft, and vandalism.
2. Evidence Collection
Footage can assist in resolving disputes or supporting insurance claims.
3. HOA or Community Compliance
Some Florida neighborhoods encourage or require exterior monitoring for community safety.
Cons and Risks
1. Tenant Distrust
Even legal cameras can make tenants feel uncomfortable if not disclosed upfront.
2. Potential Legal Claims
If a camera accidentally records private areas or audio without consent, you could face legal action.
3. Maintenance Responsibility
If the cameras malfunction, you may need to repair or replace them to fulfill any security expectations you’ve created.
Best Practices for Florida Landlords
Disclose in the Lease – Clearly state the presence, location, and purpose of exterior cameras before the tenant moves in.
Avoid Audio Recording – Use video-only cameras to prevent two-party consent issues.
Point Cameras Toward Public Areas – Keep them focused on streets, driveways, and front yards, not into windows or private areas.
Do Not Monitor Tenants’ Daily Life – Use cameras for security purposes only, not to track tenant behavior.
Final Takeaway
In Florida, you can keep exterior cameras on your rental property if they only monitor public or common areas and do not violate your tenant’s privacy rights. Disclose them in writing, avoid recording audio, and aim them only where there’s no reasonable expectation of privacy. Done right, they can protect your property without crossing legal or ethical lines.
Property management is hard enough—partner with someone who stays on top of Florida law changes and works to maintain your investment. Complete our Contact Us form or call us at 904-855-7933 to learn more about how CrossView Property Management in Jacksonville, FL, can work for you.
