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CCTV footage as evidence

CCTV footage can sometimes be used in court as evidence to prove someone was in a certain place or that they committed an offence.

CCTV can also help to improve community safety by putting someone off committing a crime like robbery if they know their actions are being recorded.

• More information on CCTV on the Information Commissioner's website Opens new window

How to request CCTV footage

You have the right to access images of yourself that may have been recorded by a CCTV camera system. This is because the Data Protection Act of 1998 means that organisations have to make any personal data available to you if you request it.

You will need to make a request in writing to the owner of the CCTV system. The owner's details are usually written on a sign attached to the camera. You will need to provide enough information so that you can be identified in the footage, for example a specific date and time, and a description of yourself and your clothing.

The organisation must give you a copy of the CCTV footage within 40 days of you asking for it. You may be charged a fee of up to £10.

You can read more about data protection and freedom of information by following the links below.

• Freedom of information (government, citizens and rights section)

• Data protection (government, citizens and rights section)

Edited footage

The CCTV recording may be edited to make sure that you can’t see any other personal data that doesn’t relate to you, like:

• a vehicle registration number that is not yours
• something that intrudes into another person's privacy

You can ask to see your local council's Code of Practice for information on how CCTV is used in your community. The Information Commissioner's website has information about CCTV cameras and the Data Protection Act.

• CCTV code of practice - Information Commissioner's Office Opens new window

• Find your local council Opens new window

Useful contacts

• Home and community contacts