Yes, dashcams are legal in Arizona, provided they comply with state privacy and traffic laws. Arizona Revised Statutes §28-914 prohibits obstructing the driver’s view, while §13-3019 regulates audio recording without consent. Local ordinances, such as those enforced by the Phoenix Police Department, may impose additional restrictions on placement and usage.
Key Regulations for Dashcams in Arizona
- Placement restrictions: Dashcams must not obstruct the driver’s forward view per ARS §28-914. Mounting on the windshield is permitted only if it does not interfere with the driver’s line of sight or airbag deployment zones.
- Audio recording limitations: Arizona is a two-party consent state (ARS §13-3019). Recording audio conversations without explicit consent from all parties is illegal, even in a vehicle.
- Data retention and privacy: The Arizona Attorney General’s Office advises against storing footage containing identifiable individuals without a legitimate business or legal purpose. Unauthorized dissemination may violate ARS §13-1404 (unlawful disclosure of images).
Local jurisdictions, including Tucson and Mesa, may enforce supplementary guidelines. For instance, the Tucson Police Department requires dashcam footage to be redacted before public release under open records requests. Failure to adhere to these rules may result in civil penalties or exclusion of footage as evidence in court. Always verify compliance with the latest Arizona Department of Public Safety directives, particularly those updated in 2026 regarding in-vehicle surveillance technologies.