Using CCTV

If your business uses CCTV, you must register your details with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and pay a data protection fee, unless you are exempt.

Check if you need to pay the data protection fee.

You must also:

  • tell people they may be recorded, usually by displaying signs, which must be clearly visible and readable
  • control who can see the recordings
  • make sure the system is only used for the purpose it was intended for - for example, if it was set up to detect crime, you must not use it to monitor how much work your staff do

The ICO has guidance with more details about CCTV.

How to pay the fee

You can register and pay the fee online.

Letting people see CCTV recordings

Anyone can ask to see images that you’ve recorded of them. Usually, you must usually provide the footage free of charge within 1 calendar month.

Find out more about CCTV and data protection rules.

Data protection rules do not apply if you install a camera on your own home for household purposes - for example, to protect it from burglary. Find out more about using CCTV in the home.