Corporate CCTV Policy - March 2026

1.1. This policy governs surveillance camera equipment and the collection, retention, usage, and disposal of data recorded by Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) systems. The Council implements CCTV systems for multiple purposes, including monitoring areas both within and surrounding council premises, car parks, highways, as well as utilising vehicle mounted cameras such as inside transport surveillance cameras, dashcams, body-worn video cameras, smart doorbells, drones, and automatic number plate recognition technology. For the purposes of this policy, all such devices will be collectively referred to as 'CCTV systems'. 

 

1.2. For clarity, drones equipped with cameras are treated as CCTV systems and are subject to all requirements and standards set out in this policy. 

 

1.3. This policy aims to set out standards relating to the use of such equipment that maximises effectiveness whilst at the same time minimises interference with the privacy of individuals whose images are captured by the devices. 

 

1.4. This policy applies to all overt CCTV systems operated by the Council; however, it does not extend to Carmarthenshire schools, which function as independent data controllers. 

 

1.5. While Carmarthenshire schools are not covered by this policy, it is strongly recommended that each school adopts its own CCTV policy. Schools may use this corporate policy as a template to ensure alignment with best practice and legal compliance under UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. 

 

 

1.7. This document should be read in conjunction with relevant codes of practice from both the Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner and the Information Commissioner’s Office.  

 

1.8. This policy, legislation, procedures and templates will be made available on the council's intranet.  

 

1.9. Officers undertaking covert surveillance with or without recording devices must comply with the requirements of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA) and the Codes of Practice issued pursuant to that legislation. This policy does not apply to such activities.