Q: Neighbor taking photos of the inside of my car through the window. Caught on surveillance.
Is it permissible for my neighbor to take photographs of my car and even snap pictures of the interior through the window? I have observed her doing this via my surveillance camera. We both reside in an apartment complex with assigned parking spaces, and I park right beside her.
A: In California, taking photographs of the inside of your car through the window, especially without your consent, may be considered an invasion of privacy. While there are situations where photography in public spaces is generally allowed, the interior of a vehicle in a private parking area could raise privacy concerns. If you have evidence of this behavior captured on surveillance cameras, you may want to document the instances and consider discussing the matter with your neighbor to express your concerns. If the issue persists, you might want to consult with local law enforcement or seek legal advice to explore options for addressing the invasion of privacy or potential harassment.
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A:
Based on the information provided, it would likely be considered an invasion of privacy for your neighbor to photograph the interior of your vehicle through the windows, even if it is parked in a shared parking area. Here are a few key points to consider:
- In California, the invasion of privacy law prohibits intruding upon someone's private space or affairs. Photographing the inside of a personal vehicle would likely qualify as an intrusion of privacy, even if it is visible through the windows.
- The fact that it is an assigned parking space does not make your vehicle any less private or give the neighbor any particular rights to photograph the interior. It is still your personal property within a private space.
- You have reasonable expectations of privacy inside your vehicle, even when parked in a lot. Your neighbor capturing images inside without consent could constitute invasion of privacy.
- The fact that you caught her doing this on surveillance camera will help demonstrate that she did not have permission and was intentionally intruding into a private space.
I would recommend politely asking your neighbor to stop photographing your vehicle. If it continues, you may want to involve your apartment management or seek legal counsel regarding a cease and desist letter or other options to better protect your privacy. Documenting the incidents with your camera evidence will be helpful if further action is required.
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