Dash cams are legal and widely used in Ohio, but there are specific regulations regarding their installation, use, and the handling of recorded footage. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you need to know to ensure you remain compliant with Ohio law.
Are Dash Cams Legal in Ohio?
Yes, dash cams are legal in Ohio. Drivers are permitted to record their own driving experiences, and dash cam footage can be invaluable in the event of a car accident or insurance dispute.
Mounting Requirements
- Windshield Mounting Prohibited: It is illegal to mount a dash cam on the driver’s windshield in Ohio. The law is designed to ensure that nothing obstructs the driver’s clear view of the road.
- Where to Mount: Dash cams should be installed on the dashboard or elsewhere in the vehicle where they do not interfere with visibility or safety. Mounting behind the rearview mirror or in a location that does not block the windshield is recommended.
Audio and Video Recording Laws
- Video Recording: You can legally record video inside your vehicle without restriction, as long as the camera is mounted legally and does not block your view.
- Audio Recording: Ohio is a one-party consent state. This means you can record audio conversations in your vehicle as long as you are a participant in the conversation; you do not need to inform passengers or other parties.
Using Dash Cam Footage
- Legal Evidence: Dash cam footage is admissible in Ohio courts and can be a powerful tool in car accident claims, helping to establish fault and clarify the sequence of events.
- Against You: Be aware that dash cam footage can also be used as evidence against you if it shows you violating traffic laws.
Accessing Police Dash Cam or Body Cam Footage
Processing Fees: As of 2025, Ohio law allows law enforcement agencies to charge up to $75 per hour (with a maximum of $750 per request) for processing video requests, including dash cam and body cam footage.
Agencies must provide a cost estimate within five days of a request and are not required to begin redacting video until payment is received.
Key Takeaways
- Dash cams are legal in Ohio, but must not be mounted on the windshield.
- Mount dash cams on the dashboard or another location that does not obstruct the driver’s view.
- One-party consent applies for audio recording inside vehicles.
- Dash cam footage is admissible in court and can be used to support or challenge accident claims.
- Accessing law enforcement dash cam footage may involve significant fees.
By following these guidelines, you can use a dash cam in Ohio both legally and effectively.
Sources:
- https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
- https://slaterzurz.com/can-i-use-dashcam-footage-in-my-ohio-car-crash-claim/
- https://aoocci.com/blogs/all/dash-cam-in-ohio
- https://www.elkandelk.com/what-you-should-know-about-ohios-new-law-on-body-camera-fees/
- https://www.fdslaw.com/blog/motor-vehicle-accidents/using-dash-cam-footage-after-an-ohio-crash/