Nebraska Laws on Surveillance Cameras in Apartment Common Areas

Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Nebraska published June 21, 2025 Flag of Nebraska

As a Nebraskan renter, you have the right to feel safe in your home and common areas—while also expecting a reasonable degree of privacy. Many landlords use security cameras in shared spaces to deter crime and provide safety. But what laws exist regarding surveillance cameras in the common areas of apartments or rental buildings? Here, we break down Nebraska’s relevant laws, your privacy rights, and where you can turn for help if you think your rights are being violated.

What Counts as a Common Area?

In apartment complexes or multi-unit dwellings, common areas include spaces like hallways, entryways, laundry rooms, lobbies, parking lots, gyms, and mailrooms. These are spaces accessible to all residents, not just one tenant or household.

Nebraska Laws on Surveillance Cameras in Common Areas

Nebraska law does not have a residential-specific statute that directly prohibits or allows landlords to install surveillance cameras in common areas. However, there are important protections you should know:

  • Reasonable Expectation of Privacy: Under Nebraska Revised Statutes, covert audio or visual recording is illegal where there’s a reasonable expectation of privacy (like bathrooms or inside individual apartments).
  • It is generally legal for landlords to use cameras in public or semi-public common areas (like the lobby, hallways, or mailroom) as long as they aren't placed in private spaces (such as bathrooms, bedrooms, or inside your apartment unit).[1]
  • Any audio recording may trigger additional legal protections, requiring consent from at least one party under Nebraska's wiretapping law.[2]
  • Camera use must not be for harassment, intimidation, or discrimination.

Can a Landlord Install Cameras Without Notifying Tenants?

Nebraska law does not currently require landlords to notify tenants before installing cameras in common areas, but it is best practice. If you have concerns, it is reasonable to request written notice or details about camera locations and footage policies.

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Your Rights and Common Complaints

  • Landlords cannot install cameras inside private living spaces or in areas like restrooms where privacy is expected.
  • If you believe a camera is being used inappropriately, you can contact your landlord first to address your concern.
  • If concerns persist, you can file a complaint with state or local authorities.
Tip: Always document your communications with your landlord if you are raising privacy or surveillance concerns. Written records can help if you need to escalate your complaint.

Relevant Nebraska Forms and How They Are Used

  • Notice of Complaint – Nebraska Real Estate Commission
    Notice of Complaint Form
    When to use: If you believe your landlord is violating your right to privacy or misusing cameras, you can file this form with the Nebraska Real Estate Commission. Example: A tenant spots cameras in a building's bathroom and files this form.
    How to use: Fill in your details and describe the nature of your complaint. Submit the form by mail or as directed on the document.

Which Agency Handles Tenant Complaints?

In Nebraska, tenant-landlord disputes about privacy or common area surveillance are handled by your local county court under the Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.[3] For concerns with licensed landlords or managers, you may also contact the Nebraska Real Estate Commission.

FAQ: Surveillance Cameras in Nebraska Rentals

  1. Can landlords put cameras in Nebraska apartment hallways?
    Yes, landlords can generally install security cameras in hallways and other common areas, provided cameras are not placed in locations where tenants have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
  2. Are cameras allowed in laundry rooms or gyms?
    Yes, so long as these spaces are considered common areas and not private restrooms or changing areas, surveillance cameras are typically allowed.
  3. Do landlords have to inform tenants about surveillance cameras?
    No law currently requires notification, but most responsible landlords will disclose camera use. If you are concerned, ask your landlord directly.
  4. Is it legal to record audio in common areas?
    Nebraskan law requires at least one party's consent for audio recording. Video-only surveillance is less strictly regulated, but privacy concerns remain important.
  5. What can I do if I believe a camera is violating my privacy?
    First, communicate your concern in writing to your landlord. If not resolved, you may file a complaint with the Nebraska Real Estate Commission or through your local county court.

Summary and Key Takeaways

  • Nebraska landlords may use security cameras in common areas, but not in private or intimate spaces.
  • Landlords should not use cameras in ways that invade your privacy or target residents unfairly.
  • If you’re uncomfortable, document your concerns and speak with your landlord, then use official complaint channels if necessary.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. See Nebraska Revised Statute 28-311.08 (Unauthorized Video Recording)
  2. Nebraska Wiretap Law (Nebraska Revised Statute 86-290)
  3. Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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