Camera surveillance in public places
You often see cameras on the street, in nightlife areas, for example. Local authorities are permitted to monitor this with cameras to maintain public order. The police may subsequently view and use the images. The fact that local authorities and the police are permitted to do this is set out in law.
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The local authority and the police both play a role in camera surveillance of public places to maintain public order. The local authority decides on the use of camera surveillance, and the police process the camera images. They also both have their own responsibilities.
Purpose of camera surveillance
Camera images almost always constitutes processing of personal data. The requirements to be met for such processing depend on the purpose for which the images were created:
- Is it about maintaining public order by the police or local authority? In that case, the Police Data Act applies, whether or not via Article 151c of the Municipalities Act.
- Does a company, government institution or private individual use cameras to protect property, personnel or buildings? In that case, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) applies. View the subject Camera surveillance at organisations.
Sometimes, companies erect advertising panels in public places, with a camera inside. This is also subject to certain rules.
