Understanding Dash Cam Regulations in Kansas

Dashboard or Windshield Mounting: Kansas allows dash cams to be installed on either the dashboard or windshield. However, they must not ‘substantially obstruct or significantly hinder’ the driver’s vision. This means any device or object, including dash cams, should not block your clear view of the road or intersecting highways. While no precise size limits are specified in Kansas statutes, best practice is to keep the dash cam as small and unobtrusive as possible, ideally tucked behind your rearview mirror or mounted low on the dashboard.

Obstruction Law: Kansas Statute KSA-8-1741(a) states that “no person shall drive any motor vehicle with any sign, poster, or other nontransparent material upon the front windshield, side wings, or side/rear windows of such vehicle which substantially obstructs…the driver’s clear view of the highway”.

Fines and Violations: If a dash cam is judged to impair your vision of the road, you could be subject to a ticket or required to remove the device.

Single-Party Consent for Audio: Kansas is a one-party consent state. You can record audio as long as at least one party in the conversation (such as yourself, the driver) is aware and consents to the recording. Recording passengers without their knowledge is legal for dash cam purposes, but for privacy, it is courteous to inform them.

Video Recording: Video captured on public roads generally does not violate privacy laws. However, pointing a camera at someone’s private property (like their home or backyard) may breach privacy rights.

Dash cam footage from your own vehicle is generally admissible in Kansas courts as long as it’s obtained legally—meaning your cam did not violate obstruction laws or privacy rules. This applies to criminal and civil cases, including insurance claims and traffic disputes.

Avoid Large or Distracting Devices: The smaller and more discreet your dash cam, the less likely you are to have legal or practical issues.

Respect Private Property: Don’t point your camera into neighboring homes or yards.

Commercial Vehicles: Kansas law applies the same basic standards to commercial vehicles—do not obstruct the windshield, and secure customer/employee consent as required.

Local Variations: While Kansas state law applies broadly, some municipalities can have their own rules regarding what’s allowed, especially for vehicles parked on private property or in business lots.

Mount on the dashboard or behind the rearview mirror—not in the driver’s direct line of sight.

Keep the device as compact and non-intrusive as possible.

Always make a full stop if reviewing footage while driving—never handle the camera while in motion.

Inform passengers if possible, especially when recording audio.