Legality of Dash Cams
- Dash cams are legal to use in Oregon. There are no state laws that explicitly prohibit their use in private vehicles.
Mounting Requirements
- Oregon law prohibits mounting dash cams (or any material) on the windshield or windows if it impairs the driver’s ability to see in or out of the vehicle.
- The safest and legal mounting location is on the dashboard, where the device does not obstruct the driver’s view.
- Windshield-mounted dash cams, including those with suction cups, are not allowed due to these obstruction laws.
Audio Recording Laws
- Oregon is an all-party consent state for in-person audio recordings. This means you must obtain consent from everyone in the vehicle before recording conversations with your dash cam.
- Recording audio without consent can lead to legal complications under Oregon’s wiretapping laws.
Best Practices for Dash Cam Use
- Mount the dash cam on the dashboard to ensure compliance with obstruction laws.
- Regularly review and delete old footage to manage storage and protect sensitive information.
- Limit the recording of bystanders and license plates when possible to respect privacy.
- Be cautious when sharing dash cam footage online, especially if it contains identifiable information.
- For commercial vehicles, there may be additional or different regulations; consult the Oregon Department of Transportation or a legal professional if you operate such vehicles.
City-Specific Rules
- Major cities like Portland, Eugene, Salem, and Bend generally follow the statewide dash cam regulations. However, always check with local authorities for any additional ordinances.
Insurance and Other Considerations
- Dash cam footage can be valuable for clarifying fault in accidents and may help with insurance claims. Some insurers offer discounts for drivers who use dash cams, so check with your provider.
- If traveling out of state, familiarize yourself with dash cam regulations in other states, as they may differ from Oregon’s laws.
Summary Table: Key Oregon Dash Cam Rules
| Regulation Area | Oregon Requirement |
|---|---|
| Legality | Dash cams legal |
| Mounting | Dashboard only; not on windshield |
| Audio Recording | All-party consent required |
| Privacy | Avoid recording/sharing private info |
| Insurance Use | Allowed; may affect premiums |
Key Takeaways
- Mount dash cams on the dashboard, not the windshield.
- Obtain consent from all vehicle occupants before recording audio.
- Check local city ordinances for any additional rules.
- Practice privacy and data security when handling footage.
Following these guidelines will help you stay compliant with Oregon law and use your dash cam responsibly.
Sources:
- https://theashlandchronicle.com/understanding-dash-cam-regulations-in-oregon/
- https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
- https://gpstrackit.com/blog/what-are-the-dashcam-regulations-in-each-state/
- https://facit.ai/insights/dash-cam-laws-by-state
- https://www.gpsinsight.com/blog/driver-facing-dash-cams-law/