Partlow, VA asked in Civil Litigation, Criminal Law and Real Estate Law for Virginia

Q: Would like to leave a camera on a pole in parking lot of a strip mall (not my property). Am I breaking any laws?

I think recording is legal as their is not expectation of privacy. I don't think it's littering. It is abandoned property, so I'd expect it to be kept if found. Trespassing (I think it's kind of a public spot)? Anything else?

Thanks!

1 Lawyer Answer
Mr. Andrew T. Bodoh
Mr. Andrew T. Bodoh
Answered
  • Richmond, VA
  • Licensed in Virginia

A: It is likely illegal. If it is private property, then it is trespassing, even if it is a public parking lot. It is not abandoned property if you do not intend to abandon it. If it is recording sound, it will likely violate the wiretapping laws.

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