Security Camera Laws for Businesses in Ontario: What You Should Know

Security cameras are now a standard part of operating a modern business. From retail stores and offices to warehouses and industrial facilities, video surveillance plays a critical role in loss prevention, liability protection, and operational oversight.

However, in Ontario, deploying security cameras is not simply a technical decision—it is a legal and compliance matter. Businesses are responsible for ensuring their surveillance systems respect privacy laws while achieving legitimate security objectives. Failure to do so can expose organizations to complaints, investigations, and reputational risk.

This guide outlines what Ontario businesses need to know before installing or upgrading a security camera system.

Are Security Cameras Legal for Businesses in Ontario?

Yes. Businesses in Ontario are legally permitted to use security cameras for legitimate business purposes, including:

• Protecting property and assets

• Preventing theft, vandalism, or unauthorized access

• Enhancing employee and customer safety

• Investigating security incidents

That said, surveillance must be reasonable, necessary, and proportionate. Cameras cannot be used arbitrarily or in a manner that intrudes on personal privacy beyond what is required for security.

Privacy Laws That Apply to Video Surveillance

Most Ontario businesses are governed by the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), which regulates how organizations collect, use, retain, and safeguard personal information—including video footage.

To remain compliant, businesses must:

• Collect video only for a clearly defined security purpose

• Avoid excessive or continuous monitoring without justification

• Restrict access to footage to authorized personnel only

• Protect recordings using secure systems and credentials

• Retain footage only for as long as reasonably necessary

In practice, this typically means retaining recordings for 30 to 90 days, unless footage is required for an active investigation or legal matter.

Notification and Transparency Requirements

Ontario privacy law places a strong emphasis on transparency. Businesses must clearly notify individuals when video surveillance is in use.

Best practices include:

• Posting visible signage at entrances and monitored areas

• Clearly stating the purpose of surveillance (e.g., safety and security)

• Informing employees about camera locations, usage, and retention policies

Surveillance should never be concealed or used as a covert employee monitoring tool unless exceptional circumstances apply and legal guidance has been obtained.

Camera Placement: What’s Permitted and What’s Not

Proper camera placement is essential for both legal compliance and system effectiveness.

Commonly Permitted Areas

• Entrances and exits

• Sales floors and public-facing areas

• Parking lots and exterior perimeters

• Loading docks and inventory areas

Prohibited or High-Risk Areas

• Washrooms and change rooms

• Areas where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy

• Private offices, unless there is a compelling and documented reason

Strategic placement not only keeps your business compliant but also ensures cameras capture actionable footage rather than unnecessary personal activity.

Secure Storage and Access Control

Video recordings are considered sensitive information and must be protected accordingly.

Businesses should ensure that:

• Systems are password-protected and access-controlled

• Footage is encrypted where possible

• Cloud storage providers meet Canadian privacy standards

• Access logs and permissions are reviewed periodically

A poorly secured system can create more risk than protection, especially if footage is accessed or shared improperly.

Risks of Non-Compliance

Improper use of security cameras can result in:

• Privacy complaints and regulatory investigations

• Mandatory corrective actions

• Legal exposure and reputational damage

• Loss of employee or customer trust

Compliance is not just about avoiding penalties—it demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and respect for privacy.

Why Work With a Professional Security Integrator

Navigating surveillance laws while designing an effective system requires experience that goes beyond camera hardware.

At Maple Link Technologies, we specialize in commercial security camera systems designed to meet Ontario’s legal and operational requirements. Our approach includes:

• Compliance-conscious camera placement

• Secure recording and access configurations

• Clean, professional installations

• Scalable systems integrated with networking and access control

We work closely with business owners, property managers, and general contractors to ensure surveillance systems are both effective and defensible.

Final Thoughts

Security cameras are a powerful tool for protecting your business—but only when deployed responsibly. Understanding Ontario’s surveillance laws and implementing best practices helps safeguard your organization while respecting individual privacy.

If you are planning a new installation or reviewing an existing system, Maple Link Technologies can help ensure your surveillance infrastructure is compliant, reliable, and built for long-term use.

Contact Maple Link Technologies to discuss compliant security camera solutions for businesses across Toronto and the GTA.