Dash cams are legal in Ohio, but their use is subject to specific rules regarding installation, video and audio recording, and privacy.
Installation and Mounting
Windshield Mounting Prohibited: You cannot mount a dash cam on the windshield in Ohio. The device must be installed on the dashboard or another location that does not obstruct the driver’s view of the road.
Dashboard or Rearview Mirror: Mounting on the dashboard or rearview mirror is allowed, provided the camera does not block your line of sight.
Recording Laws
Video Recording: You are allowed to record video inside and outside your vehicle without notifying others, as long as the camera is legally mounted and does not create a hazard.
Audio Recording: Ohio is a one-party consent state for audio recordings. This means you can record conversations inside your vehicle as long as you are a participant in the conversation; you do not need to inform passengers or others being recorded.
Public Places: Recording video in public spaces, including roads, is generally legal since there is no reasonable expectation of privacy in these locations.
Use of Dash Cam Footage
Insurance and Legal Claims: Dash cam footage is admissible as evidence in insurance claims and court cases. It is often used to establish facts in traffic accidents and disputes.
Law Enforcement Dash Cams: Police dash cam footage is considered a public record in Ohio, though portions deemed “investigatory work product” can be redacted. Each case is reviewed individually to determine what must be disclosed.
Privacy Considerations
Private Property: While you can record from public roads, intentionally recording people on private property or targeting private conversations without consent could raise legal issues.
Passenger Awareness: Although not required, it is considered courteous to inform passengers that audio and video may be recorded.
Ohio Dash Cam Regulations
| Aspect | Ohio Law/Requirement |
|---|---|
| Legal to use dash cam | Yes |
| Windshield mounting | Prohibited; use dashboard or non-obstructive location |
| Video recording | Legal, no notice required |
| Audio recording | One-party consent (you must be a participant) |
| Use as evidence | Permitted in court and insurance claims |
| Police dash cams | Public record, subject to redaction for investigatory work |
You may legally use a dash cam in Ohio if it does not obstruct your view, is not mounted on the windshield, and you comply with one-party consent rules for audio. Dash cam footage is widely accepted as evidence, and police dash cam videos are generally public records with limited exceptions.
Sources
[1] https://slaterzurz.com/can-i-use-dashcam-footage-in-my-ohio-car-crash-claim/
[2] https://www.fdslaw.com/blog/motor-vehicle-accidents/using-dash-cam-footage-after-an-ohio-crash/
[3] https://www.koffellaw.com/blog/ohio-supreme-court-rules-that-dash-cam-footage-i/
[4] https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state
[5] https://www.newsroomlegal.com/ohio-supreme-court-rules-dashcam-videos-not-protected-by-investigatory-proceedings-exception/
