Security Cameras Required for Some Houston Businesses
Businesses in Houston, like convenience stores, now need security cameras.
As part of a greater crime reduction effort, the City of Houston now requires security cameras posted outside certain businesses. With input from the Houston Police Department, the city legal department created an ordinance that focuses on the kinds of businesses that attract the most instances of violent crime and theft. These include convenience stores, bars, nightclubs, sexually oriented businesses and game rooms. HPD responded to over 10,000 reports of violent crime during 2021 at these types of locations.
Camera and Video Specifics
The new law that went into effect July 19th details the required camera specifications and video requirements. These include:
- Cameras must be digital high-res surveillance cameras with a minimum resolution of two megapixels and a minimum aspect ratio of 1920 x 1080 pixels.
- The videos must have a minimum frame rate of 30 frames per second and have Wide Dynamic Range capabilities.
- The cameras must run at all times and keep an archive of video for up to 30 days.
- If HPD requests footage for a crime investigation, the color video must be provided in MPEG-4 format within 72 hours.
The ordinance concedes that video technology may change and allows that HPD may recommend updated technology as it becomes available.
The Pros and Cons
Proponents argue that having cameras recording entryways and other areas of the property may deter criminal activity and will also assist HPD with investigating and solving crimes. Businesses that have lost money and customers due to crime hope the new cameras will make these areas safer. Opponents cite privacy issues of “warrantless” searches made by the police. The cost of these cameras also falls on the business-owner rather than the city or police department, which has drawn criticism as well.
The Need for Cameras
Despite any shortcomings of the new rule, many businesses now need compliant cameras installed or have their existing cameras retrofitted. Taking care of these new requirements will help to avoid enforcement by police and possible fines. Businesses that do not fall under the categories covered by the ordinance may benefit from surveillance cameras as well. These cameras can serve as the eyes and ears for a business – tracking, observing and recording the areas that are of most concern.
Contact Cultris Security
Cultris Security not only provides quality video surveillance cameras, but we can provide them as part of a customized, comprehensive solution for all of your security and access needs. Call us at 281-506-8466 or visit us online for a free quote today.
