Crime Prevention Cameras in the Right-of-Way Orange County Board of County Commissioners January 28, 2014

Nationwide the use of security cameras, both in the public and private sectors, is steadily increasing due to lower cost technology and simplified camera installations. HOAs are using more cameras to enhance neighborhood safety. BACKGROUND

In Orange County, the majority of cameras identified are located in Commission District 1. Other districts are experiencing security camera installations as well. Orange County policy does not address cameras placed within the rights-of-way. BACKGROUND

●Several Homeowner’s Associations installed crime prevention cameras within the right-of-way to monitor vehicular and pedestrian traffic No permits were acquired 14 Violation notices sent to HOA’s for the removal or relocation of the cameras Additional inquiries have been received HISTORY

ISSUES Orange County Code silent about cameras Right-of-way cameras may increase County’s liability County policy clarification

PROS & CONS PROS Monitor activities in the rights-of-way Aid law enforcement investigations Deterrence of vandalism Impacts on crime reduction Loss prevention

PROS & CONS CONS Potential liability to County ‒ False sense of security to public ‒ Perceived invasion of privacy ‒ Misuse/abuse ‒ Inappropriate surveillance Obstruction in rights-of-way

PROCESSES Permitting/Inspection Requirements – Right-of-Way Use Agreement – Right-of-Way Utilization Permit – Low Voltage Electrical Registration

PROCESSES Right-of-Way Use Agreement – Defines responsible party – Design/installation requirements – Maintenance requirement – Removal/relocation notice – Indemnification of County – Insurance – Duration period – Public signage notification – No audio recordings

PROCESSES Right-of- Way Utilization Permit – Regulates location of installation – Compliance with standards – Addresses safety & protection of equipment – Indemnifies County

PROCESSES Low Voltage Electrical Registration – Camera location tracking

RECOMMENDATION l Allow crime prevention cameras to be located in public rights-of-way, subject to conditions, restrictions, and existing County permitting requirements.

BOARD ACTION l Requesting the approval of staff’s recommendations to allow crime prevention cameras to be located in public rights-of- way, subject to conditions, restrictions, and existing County permitting requirements.

Crime Prevention Cameras in the Right-of-Way Board of County Commissioners January 28, 2014