Legal Question in Criminal Law in Pennsylvania

Re: camera recording in a beauty salon

Generally if you give notice, a sign stating that you are recording, you are covered. Pennsylvania law has some quirks which make soundless video the best way to go. You should consult an attorney to discuss possible plans.

Re: camera recording in a beauty salon

As stated in the other answer, Pennsylvania has some quirks which make soundless video the best way to go but I would be very reluctant to advise anyone that it would be okay to do this. The reason is that the prohibition against interception of communications is very broad under Pennsylvania Law and an electronic communication is defined as,"ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION." Any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic, photoelectronic or photo-optical system...."

I do think that if you conspicuously posted a sign indicating that the premises are monitored by camera, etc., most courts addressing any issue involving the recording would be inclined to say that there was implied consent to the recording, but you have to evaluate what effect such a sign might have upon your business. Very few people want their private conversations recorded anywhere. As far as monitoring your cash register or specific locations within the shop, I don't think that would be a problem so long as you set the system up to avoid recording communications and you have the consent of your employees.