Can I install a home security camera in Switzerland?
On your own property generally yes — but not beyond the boundary. Filming your own private property is allowed and needs no permit. But the camera must not capture public space (street, pavement) or a neighbour's property, entrance or garden — that infringes the personality rights of an indeterminate number of people. Under the revised Data Protection Act (revDSG, since September 2023), surveillance must be proportionate, serve a legitimate purpose and be transparent; a sign indicating surveillance is expected, and footage must be deleted when no longer needed. The EDÖB advises. In short: yes, for your own property, without public space or neighbours.
📋 The rules
- Filming your own property: generally allowed
- No public space, no neighbour's property
- revDSG: proportionate, legitimate purpose, transparent
- Sign indicating surveillance expected
- Delete footage when no longer needed
🔓 Exceptions
- Doorbell/dashcams: don't systematically film public space
- Dispute with neighbours: often the conciliation authority first
- Civil protection under ZGB Art. 28 possible
⚠️ Penalties & fines
A camera filming public space or a neighbour's property is generally unlawful. Affected persons can contact the EDÖB or sue under ZGB Art. 28 (personality protection); the court can order the camera removed or re-angled and award damages. Beware a myth: "on my property I can film whatever I want" is false — as soon as public space or neighbours are captured, it's not permitted. Tip: angle the camera so only your own entrance is visible, and put up a sign.
📎 Official sources
- EDÖB · video surveillance by private persons →
- EDÖB · video surveillance in the neighbourhood →
- Fedlex · Data Protection Act (revDSG) →
❓ Frequently asked
Can I install a camera at home?
On your own private property generally yes, and you need no permit. But the camera must not capture public space such as the street or pavement, or a neighbour's property. Angle it so that only your own area, such as your house entrance, is in the picture.
What must the camera not film?
It must not capture public space or a neighbour's property, entrance or garden. Such recordings infringe the personality rights of an indeterminate number of people and are generally unlawful. This also applies to doorbell cameras and dashcams, which you must angle accordingly.
What does the data protection law require?
Under the revised Data Protection Act, surveillance must be proportionate, serve a legitimate purpose and be transparent. A sign indicating the video surveillance is expected, so people know they're being filmed. Footage must be deleted as soon as it's no longer needed for the purpose.
What can I do about a neighbour's camera?
If your neighbour's camera films your property or public space, you can contact the EDÖB or take civil action under Article 28 of the Civil Code. Often the route goes first via the communal conciliation authority before a court decides on the matter and any remedies.
Do I need a sign?
Yes, a sign indicating the video surveillance is expected, so that people know they're being filmed and can exercise their rights. This is part of the transparency required under the data protection law. A clearly visible sign at the monitored area also helps avoid disputes with neighbours.
🔎 Common searches
What people search to land here:
- “home security camera switzerland”
- “private video surveillance switzerland”
- “neighbour camera switzerland”
- “revdsg video surveillance”
- “doorbell camera switzerland”
- “edöb video surveillance”