Is One-Party Consent Recording Legal in Vermont After the 2026 Law Changes?

Yes, Vermont permits one-party consent recording under 13 V.S.A. § 1232, aligning with federal wiretapping statutes. State law requires only one participant’s consent for lawful interception, including in-person conversations or electronic communications. The Vermont Attorney General’s Office enforces compliance, with no 2026 statutory amendments altering this framework. Violations risk civil penalties under 13 V.S.A. § 1233, though enforcement remains rare for private recordings absent criminal intent.


  • Consent Requirement: Only one party to the conversation must consent to recording, per 13 V.S.A. § 1232. This applies to both in-person and telephonic communications, including digital platforms.
  • Prohibition on Third-Party Interception: Recording communications where the recorder is not a participant is illegal, as outlined in 13 V.S.A. § 1231. This bars surreptitious eavesdropping by non-parties.
  • Intent and Use Restrictions: Recordings obtained legally cannot be used for criminal purposes or to violate privacy rights under 13 V.S.A. § 1233. Misuse may trigger civil liability or criminal charges.