CCTV and Security Camera Laws in Costa del Sol, Spain: What Property Owners Need to Know
If you own a home, holiday rental, or investment property on the Costa del Sol, installing CCTV can be a smart move. Security cameras help deter illegal occupation (okupas), monitor activity, and provide peace of mind — especially if you're based abroad.
But before installing surveillance cameras, it’s essential to understand the Spanish laws around CCTV use, particularly in residential and rental properties. Failing to comply can lead to fines or legal issues — even if your intentions are good.
At Solcierge, we help homeowners across Marbella, Málaga, Estepona, and beyond stay protected and informed. In this guide, we’ll break down the key points of CCTV laws in Spain so you can secure your home legally and responsibly.
🔒 Can You Legally Install CCTV on Your Property in Spain?
Yes — you are allowed to install CCTV on your private property, but there are strict rules about where, how, and why you record.
Here’s what’s allowed:
You can install cameras to monitor your own private property.
You cannot film public spaces, such as sidewalks, roads, or neighbouring buildings.
You cannot film areas shared by other property owners, like communal hallways, entrances, or shared gardens in apartment blocks or urbanisations — unless the entire community agrees.
You must inform guests and visitors if the property is under video surveillance.
⚠️ Key CCTV Regulations for Homeowners in Spain
If you’re installing CCTV on your Costa del Sol property, here are the main legal points to keep in mind:
✅ Only Record What You Legally Own
Your cameras must only capture footage of your own land or home. Recording beyond that — such as into a neighbour’s garden, a shared driveway, or the public street — is not permitted unless specifically authorised.
✅ Signage Is Mandatory
If your property is under surveillance, you must display a visible sign at the entrance of the property stating that CCTV is in use. This is required under Spain’s data protection laws.
✅ Inform Guests If You Rent Out Your Property
For holiday rentals and Airbnbs, if you have CCTV in or around the property, you must inform guests clearly before they book and again upon arrival. Hidden cameras, especially indoors, are illegal and can result in serious consequences.
✅ No Indoor Surveillance of Occupied Spaces
Installing cameras inside the property where people sleep, eat, or live (e.g., bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens) is considered a serious invasion of privacy. It is strictly prohibited, especially for rental properties.
✅ Compliance with GDPR
Because CCTV involves recording personal data (images of people), your system must comply with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This includes:
Not storing footage longer than necessary
Securing access to the recordings
Providing information to individuals about their rights if requested
🛑 What Happens If You Break CCTV Laws in Spain?
Non-compliance with CCTV and privacy laws in Spain can lead to:
Fines from the Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD)
Lawsuits from individuals whose privacy has been violated
Penalties for illegal surveillance in rental properties
Fines can range from €600 to over €100,000, depending on the severity and intent.
👷♂️ How Solcierge Helps Property Owners Stay Compliant
At Solcierge, we support homeowners and landlords across the Costa del Sol with:
Advice on legal CCTV installation
Connecting you with licensed security professionals
Coordinating signage and placement compliance
Providing guest communication support if surveillance is in use on rental properties
Managing keyholding and property access securely, so you may not need CCTV at all
📍 Should You Use CCTV on the Costa del Sol?
CCTV can be an excellent tool to:
Deter squatters (okupas)
Monitor deliveries and service providers
Protect luxury properties and second homes
Offer peace of mind when living abroad
But it must be installed and managed correctly — with clear signage, limited scope, and legal awareness.
💬 Need Help Managing Your Property’s Security?
If you're thinking about installing CCTV or want help managing your home or holiday rental securely and legally, Solcierge is here to support you.
Contact us today to learn more about our property management and security services on the Costa del Sol — and protect your home the right way.