It’s a common concern in Florida communities: a camera goes up near the pool or clubhouse, and residents start asking—Is that legal? Can they record me on my porch or even through my windows? When it comes to community association cameras, especially those placed near homes, the line between security and privacy can feel blurry.

For one community association in Southwest Florida, late-night vandalism had become a costly and frustrating routine. Their pool deck, fitness center, and clubhouse were being misused after hours — furniture tossed in the pool, equipment damaged, and common areas left trashed. The worst part? They had cameras. And those cameras even captured the events. But they still couldn’t figure out who did it.