Clarify types of home security cameras allowed

A few years ago, I installed manually adjustable closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras inside and outside my house for the safety of my children.

Some months ago, I found that my neighbour had installed an Internet Protocol (IP) camera outside his own unit.

Due to the camera's size and position, I suspected that it was being directed at my main door, so I consulted a CCTV specialist to establish the model and specifications. I found that it is an IP camera that can pan, zoom and tilt, and capture audio; it can be controlled remotely through mobile phones.

I gave feedback to the Jurong Town Council but was told that my neighbour had obtained approval for the camera from the Bukit Batok Neighbourhood Police Centre.

When I approached the police, however, they said they were a neutral party with regard to CCTV cameras, as the licensing came under the town council's purview.

I talked to the town council staff again, and they said they could ask my neighbour to remove his camera only if they were instructed by the police to do so.

It would be good if the town council could offer some clarification on the type of CCTV or IP cameras that are permitted outside homes, as I understand that cameras like the one outside my neighbour's home are invasive due to their zoom capabilities.

Agnes Low (Madam)

This article was first published on June 12, 2014.
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