In Oregon, dash cams are legal to own and use, but there are specific regulations about their placement and how you record with them:
Dash Cam Mounting Requirements
Windshield mounting is illegal: Oregon law prohibits placing any material—including dash cams—that “prevents or impairs the ability to see into or out of the vehicle”. As a result, dash cams cannot be mounted on the windshield or any vehicle window, even if placed behind the rearview mirror.
Dashboard mounting is allowed: The best and legally recommended location for your dash cam is on the dashboard, where it does not obstruct your line of sight or impede visibility.
Audio Recording Rules
Two-party (all-party) consent required: Oregon is a two-party consent state for audio recordings. This means you must have the explicit consent of everyone in the vehicle before recording conversations. Recording without this consent is illegal and may have legal consequences.
Best practice: Disable your dash cam’s audio recording function unless you have obtained consent from all parties. Always inform passengers if audio may be recorded.
Use of Dash Cam Footage
Legal in documentation: Dash cam footage is admissible as evidence in court cases, such as for accidents or insurance claims, but final decisions on admissibility are at the judge’s discretion.
Privacy caution: Limit capturing or sharing video that includes identifiable information about bystanders, and avoid posting footage publicly without careful review.
City-Specific Considerations
State law prevails: Major Oregon cities—including Portland, Eugene, Salem, and Bend—generally follow state regulations. Always check municipal resources if you have unique local concerns.
Commercial Vehicles
Legal to use: Dash cams can be installed in commercial vehicles, but recording employees or passengers requires notification and possibly consent, especially regarding audio.
Key Takeaways
| Rule | Legal Requirement |
|---|---|
| Dash cam ownership/use | Legal in Oregon |
| Windshield/window mounting | Prohibited |
| Dashboard mounting | Allowed; must not block driver view |
| Audio recording | Two-party consent required |
| Court admissibility | Judge’s discretion |
Following these rules ensures your dash cam is used both legally and effectively in Oregon. For extra caution, always check for local updates or consult a legal professional if you have unique circumstances.
Sources
[1] https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
[2] https://theashlandchronicle.com/understanding-dash-cam-regulations-in-oregon/
[3] https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state
[4] https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/dash-cam-laws-by-state
[5] https://johnston-lawfirm.com/the-importance-of-dashcam-footage-as-evidence-in-car-accidents/
