Yes, dash cams are legal in Kansas. Drivers can install and use dash cams in their vehicles for personal or business purposes. However, there are important regulations regarding where and how you mount your dash cam, as well as rules about recording audio and respecting privacy.
Mounting Requirements: Placement and Obstruction
Dashboard or Windshield:
You may mount a dash cam on either the dashboard or the windshield in Kansas.
Obstruction of View:
Kansas law prohibits placing any nontransparent material—including dash cams—on the windshield, side wings, or windows if it “substantially obstructs” or impairs the driver’s clear view of the highway.
There is no specific size or location defined in Kansas law, so the standard is whether the device creates a substantial obstruction. To minimize risk, mount the dash cam behind the rearview mirror or in a position that does not interfere with your line of sight.
Audio Recording and Privacy Laws
- One-Party Consent State: Kansas is a one-party consent state for audio recording. This means you can legally record audio in your vehicle as long as at least one party to the conversation (which can be you) is aware of and consents to the recording.
- Privacy Considerations: Recording video on public roads is generally legal, but aiming your dash cam into private spaces (such as someone’s home or yard) may violate privacy expectations.
Dash Cam Footage as Legal Evidence
- Admissibility in Court: Dash cam footage is generally admissible as evidence in Kansas courts, provided it is relevant and lawfully obtained. Both police and civilian dash cam videos have been used in legal proceedings, including accident and personal injury cases.
Summary Table: Kansas Dash Cam Laws
| Regulation Area | Kansas Law/Guidance |
|---|---|
| Dash cam legality | Legal to install and use |
| Mounting location | Dashboard or windshield, but must not substantially block view |
| Size/location limits | No specific size; avoid substantial obstruction |
| Audio recording | One-party consent required |
| Privacy | Avoid filming into private spaces |
| Use as evidence | Admissible in court if relevant and lawfully obtained |
Key Takeaways
- Dash cams are legal in Kansas, but must not substantially obstruct the driver’s view.
- Mounting behind the rearview mirror or low on the dashboard is recommended to avoid visibility issues.
- Audio recording is legal with one-party consent.
- Dash cam footage can be used as evidence in court if obtained lawfully.
By following these guidelines, you can use a dash cam in Kansas both legally and effectively.
Sources:
- https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state
- https://harrisandhart.com/blog/how-can-dashcam-footage-strengthen-your-motor-vehicle-accident-claim/
- https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
- https://mylolowcountry.com/usa-laws/understanding-dash-cam-regulations-in-kansas/