Surveillance Cameras in Colorado Apartment Common Areas: Renters’ Rights

If you’re renting in Colorado, you might notice surveillance cameras in hallways, lobbies, laundry rooms, or parking garages. While these cameras can help improve safety for everyone in the building, they also raise questions about renter privacy, what’s allowed under state law, and what you can do if you think a camera crosses the line. This guide explains your rights and responsibilities related to surveillance cameras in common areas in Colorado, including relevant state rules and helpful resources.

Your Right to Privacy in Common Areas

Colorado law gives renters a reasonable expectation of privacy in their homes, but common areas—like hallways, mailrooms, and lobbies—are generally not considered private in the same way. Still, landlords must follow certain rules when using surveillance cameras:

• Landlords may install visible cameras in common areas for safety and security.
• Cameras generally cannot be placed in private areas (inside an apartment, bathrooms, locker rooms) without consent.
• Hidden cameras in private areas are not legal and may violate Colorado criminal laws.^[1]

There is currently no specific state law in Colorado that restricts landlords from installing cameras in common areas, but using them to actively invade someone’s privacy—like filming inside a tenant’s apartment or recording audio without consent—is generally not allowed under Colorado Revised Statutes Title 18 (Criminal Code) and Title 38 (Property, Real and Personal).^[2]

Where Cameras Can (and Can't) Be Used

Cameras can help prevent crime or improve building safety, but they must be used respectfully and legally. Here’s what’s generally permitted:

• Allowed: Security cameras in communal entryways, parking areas, gyms, laundry rooms, or outside buildings.
• Not allowed: Hidden cameras in private apartments, or cameras in locker rooms, bathrooms, or any private space where a tenant could expect privacy.

Check your rental agreement for any camera or security policies. If you believe cameras are being used inappropriately, communicate your concerns in writing to your landlord or property manager.

Notice Requirements

Colorado law does not require landlords to notify renters before installing cameras in common areas, but many landlords provide notice as a courtesy or as part of their lease agreement. If your lease promises notice for changes to security features, ask for this in writing if a new camera is installed.

What To Do If You Have Concerns About Surveillance Cameras

If you’re uncomfortable with a camera’s location or believe it invades your privacy, you have the right to address the issue. Steps to take may include:

• Document the location and appearance of the camera, including photos if possible.
• Review your lease for any mention of cameras or privacy protections.
• Submit your concern in writing to the landlord. Clearly explain why you feel your privacy is impacted and request a solution.
• If the issue isn’t addressed, you can file a complaint with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs - Division of Housing or seek advice from a legal aid service. While Colorado does not have a single residential tenancies tribunal, rental disputes may also be handled by the local county or district court.

Relevant Legislation and Complaint Forms

• Colorado Revised Statutes Title 18 (Criminal Code): Prohibits unlawful surveillance and privacy invasions. Relevant for hidden cameras in private areas.^[1]
• Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38, Article 12 (Tenant and Landlord): Governs landlord-tenant relationships.^[2]
• Complaint Form – Colorado Division of Housing: Use if you are unable to resolve an issue directly with your landlord.
  Example: If you discover a camera pointed into your apartment, use this form to officially report your complaint to the state’s Division of Housing. The form can be found on the Division’s official Fair Housing page.

Most disputes about cameras in common areas will be handled by talking with your landlord. Only in more serious or unresolved cases would the courts, or state agencies, become involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord put cameras in the hallway or laundry room of my building?
   Yes, landlords can generally place visible cameras in common areas like hallways, laundry rooms, or lobbies. These areas are not considered private under Colorado law, but cameras must not record inside apartments or private spaces.
2. Does my landlord have to tell me if cameras are installed?
   Colorado law does not require landlords to notify renters before adding cameras in common areas. However, rental agreements or building policies may require advanced notice, so check your lease.
3. Can I request a camera be removed if I feel it invades my privacy?
   Yes, you can submit your concerns in writing to your landlord. If the camera invades a private space, or you believe laws are being violated, you can file a complaint with the Colorado Division of Housing or seek legal advice.
4. Are hidden cameras allowed in my apartment?
   No, it is illegal to place hidden cameras inside someone’s apartment or other private spaces without consent. This may also be a criminal offense under Colorado law.
5. Who helps with disputes about cameras in rental properties?
   The Colorado Division of Housing provides resources and complaint forms. For serious privacy violations, local law enforcement or county courts may be involved.

Key Takeaways for Colorado Renters

• Visible security cameras are generally allowed in common areas, but not inside private apartments or bathrooms.
• If you have privacy concerns about a camera, submit your concern in writing to your landlord first.
• Complaints about serious or unresolved issues can be made to the Colorado Division of Housing or local county court.

Understanding your privacy rights gives you confidence to address surveillance concerns with your landlord or property manager.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Division of Housing – Landlord-Tenant Resources: Statewide information and complaint forms.
• Read the Colorado Revised Statutes: Official source for relevant tenant and privacy laws.
• Fair Housing Resources: For discrimination or harassment complaints.
• For unresolved or urgent privacy violations, contact your local county or district court: Find Your Local County Court
• Legal aid: Colorado Legal Services offers free or low-cost legal help for eligible renters.

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1. For Colorado’s criminal law on surreptitious surveillance and privacy, see Colorado Revised Statutes Title 18, Article 7, Section 116
2. Landlord-tenant responsibilities are found in Title 38, Article 12 of the Colorado Revised Statutes

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