North Dakota Laws on Surveillance Cameras in Apartment Common Areas

As a North Dakota renter, security and privacy matter—especially when it comes to surveillance cameras in shared spaces. While landlords may install cameras in common areas to enhance safety, there are clear rules to protect your privacy. Understanding these laws can help you know your rights, ask for transparency, and resolve concerns if you feel your privacy is at risk.

Surveillance Cameras in North Dakota Rental Common Areas

Landlords in North Dakota sometimes use security cameras in entryways, laundry rooms, parking lots, or hallways. These are considered common areas—spaces shared by all tenants. While there are benefits to added security, state laws and general privacy rights limit how and where such cameras can be used.

What State Law Says About Surveillance in Apartments

North Dakota law does not specifically ban or regulate cameras in most apartment common areas. However, general privacy protections apply. Your landlord must respect your reasonable expectation of privacy, even in shared spaces.

• It is illegal for anyone to place a camera in areas where tenants expect privacy, like bathrooms or inside your apartment, under North Dakota Century Code, § 12.1-20-12.2 - Surreptitious intrusion.
• Cameras in open, shared areas (lobbies, hallways) are generally allowed, but filming or recording where a resident undresses, showers, or uses the restroom is not permitted.
• Landlords must not use cameras to monitor individual tenants or to harass or intimidate you.

If you’re unsure whether a camera violates your privacy, you can reach out to the agency below for clarification or advice.

Your Rights as a Renter

• Ask your landlord to clearly notify you about any cameras in the building and their purpose.
• Request that no cameras record audio (video-only is the legal standard for most common area cameras).
• You can request in writing that cameras not point directly at your apartment door.

If You Have Concerns About Surveillance

If you feel a surveillance camera violates your privacy or is placed unlawfully, you can take several steps. The process involves notifying your landlord and, if not resolved, contacting authorities.

1. Document your concerns (where and when you noticed the camera, details, and any interactions with your landlord).
2. Submit a written request to your landlord asking for clarification or changes.
3. If concerns persist, contact your local law enforcement for potential violations under privacy or trespass laws, or reach out to:
4. North Dakota Attorney General’s Office, Consumer Protection & Antitrust Division: File a complaint.
5. If you feel your lease was breached (e.g., new cameras added without notice), you may request dispute resolution through the small claims process in North Dakota state courts.

Relevant Forms for North Dakota Renters

• Consumer Complaint Form
  Official Consumer Complaint Form (PDF)
  Use when you believe your privacy rights have been violated by your landlord’s use of cameras. Example: You notice a new camera in the laundry room directly facing into your unit’s window and want to officially alert the Attorney General’s office.
• North Dakota Small Claims Court Forms
  North Dakota Courts - Small Claims
  If you wish to pursue a landlord-tenant dispute related to privacy or surveillance, start here for the complaint process.

What is the Tenancy Tribunal or Authority in North Dakota?

North Dakota does not have a specialized landlord-tenant tribunal. Disputes are heard in North Dakota State District Court (often via Small Claims Court for minor matters). For legal information, see the North Dakota Supreme Court or North Dakota Housing Legal Self-Help resource pages.

Main Landlord-Tenant Legislation You Should Know

• North Dakota Century Code, Title 47 – Landlord and Tenant
• Section 12.1-20-12.2 – Surreptitious Intrusion

These laws set out the rules and responsibilities for both landlords and tenants regarding privacy, security, and tenant rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord put cameras in my apartment hallway?
   In most cases, yes—common hallways are not considered private under North Dakota law. However, cameras cannot point directly into private units or be placed where you have a reasonable expectation of privacy (like bathrooms).
2. Do I have to be notified if cameras are installed?
   There’s no legal requirement for prior notice about cameras in common areas, but landlords should inform tenants as a matter of good practice and transparency.
3. Is audio recording allowed in common area cameras?
   No. Audio recording without consent is generally not permitted under North Dakota law. Cameras in rental common areas should be video-only unless clear, written consent is provided by all tenants.
4. What should I do if I feel my privacy is being invaded?
   First, document the situation and speak with your landlord. If the issue remains, file a complaint with the Attorney General’s office using the provided form, or seek advice from local authorities or the courts.
5. Where do I go for help with a landlord-tenant camera dispute?
   North Dakota State District Court (Small Claims), the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division, or legal self-help services are primary resources for renters with these concerns.

Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters

• Cameras in apartment common areas are generally legal, but private spaces are always off-limits.
• If you believe cameras violate privacy or lease terms, document your concerns and use official complaint channels.
• North Dakota laws balance building security with renter privacy—knowing your rights helps you stay informed and protected.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Courts: Legal Self-Help – Housing: Reliable guidance on tenant and landlord rights, court forms, and options if you need to take legal action.
• ND Attorney General Consumer Protection: File formal complaints or get advice on privacy and rental issues.
• North Dakota Supreme Court: For official state laws and court contacts.
• For additional assistance, contact the ND Department of Labor and Human Rights.

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1. North Dakota Century Code, Title 47 – Landlord and Tenant
2. Section 12.1-20-12.2 – Surreptitious Intrusion
3. ND Attorney General – Consumer Resources
4. North Dakota Small Claims Self-Help

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