Video Surveillance Signs for Apartment Buildings
Security cameras are now standard in many NYC apartment buildings. Owners often ask if they need a sign to go with them. The short answer is that it's a smart idea, but the bigger legal questions are about where cameras point and how entry data is handled.
The quick answer
In short: Cameras in common areas like lobbies, halls and laundry rooms are generally allowed. Avoid private spaces like inside apartments and bathrooms, and avoid recording audio without consent. Smart entry systems (fobs, apps, face scans) fall under the Tenant Data Privacy Law. A posted camera notice is good practice.
Where cameras usually make sense
- 1Entrances and lobbiesThe most common spot, and a strong deterrent for package theft.
- 2Hallways and elevatorsCommon areas where tenants don't expect privacy.
- 3Mailrooms, laundry and bike roomsPlaces where theft or damage happens.
- 4Garages and back doorsEntry points that are easy to miss.
Where to be careful
Don't place cameras inside apartments, in bathrooms or changing areas, or angled into tenants' windows or doors in a way that captures private space. Audio recording raises separate consent issues. If you're unsure, talk to an attorney before installing.
Smart entry systems
If your building uses key fobs, phone apps or biometric entry, Local Law 63 of 2021 applies. Owners must give tenants a data privacy policy, get consent before collecting certain data, limit what's collected, and destroy authentication data within 90 days unless it's anonymized. Smart access also can't be required to enter a tenant's own unit.
We make clear, professional camera notice signs for lobbies and entrances. See custom signs
Why post a camera sign anyway
A visible notice discourages theft and vandalism before it happens.
Tenants and visitors know the area is monitored.
Being upfront avoids complaints and disputes later.
Put the notice at each monitored entrance and in the lobby. Keep the wording simple, like "This area is monitored by video cameras." Mount it near your notice wall, but don't let it crowd out the required signs.
What this looks like in practice
Say a 60 unit building adds cameras after a string of package thefts. They cover the lobby, mailroom and back door, but not the residential halls on upper floors. A notice goes up at each entrance. The building already uses key fobs, so management also sends tenants the data privacy policy the Tenant Data Privacy Law requires.
Related building rules
Cameras help, but they don't replace keeping exits clear or posting the safety notices. See hallway storage rules, our manager's compliance checklist and battery safety signs.
Official sources: HPD: Tenant Data Privacy Law, HPD: Property Owner Responsibilities. General information, not legal advice.
Quick answers
Are security cameras allowed in NYC apartment buildings?
Generally yes in common areas like lobbies and halls. Avoid private spaces and audio recording without consent.
Do I need a sign for building cameras?
It's strongly recommended for transparency and deterrence. Check with your attorney about any requirements for your building.
What is the Tenant Data Privacy Law?
Local Law 63 of 2021, which sets privacy rules for smart entry systems like fobs, apps and biometrics.
Not sure what your building needs?
Send us your address and number of apartments. We will tell you exactly which signs to order.
General information based on the NYC HPD Required Signage page as of November 2026. Not legal advice. HPD Signs NYC is not affiliated with the City of New York or HPD. Prices may change. Check nyc.gov/hpd for the latest rules.