Airbnb Security Camera Policy: What Hosts Can and Cannot Use

Airbnb does not allow home hosts to use security cameras or recording devices that monitor any part of the listing’s interior—even if the device is turned off or disconnected. Exterior cameras can be allowed, but location and privacy rules apply and hosts must disclose them properly.

These rules took effect April 30, 2024 and remain part of Airbnb’s current home privacy policy in 2026.

Official sources: Airbnb: Restrictions on security cameras and other devices in homes and Airbnb: Informing guests about security devices.

Indoor cameras are prohibited in Airbnb homes

Airbnb’s policy says hosts are not allowed to have security cameras or recording devices monitoring any part of a home’s interior. Airbnb gives examples including hallways, bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms, and guest houses.

The prohibition applies even when the camera is turned off or disconnected.

Hidden cameras are strictly prohibited

A hidden camera violates Airbnb policy regardless of where a host thinks it is justified. Hosts should not conceal recording devices inside clocks, chargers, smoke-alarm housings, decorations, or other objects.

The indoor-camera rule also applies to shared-space listings

Airbnb says the prohibition covers common areas and shared spaces of private-room listings, such as a shared living room. A host cannot justify an indoor camera simply because the host also lives in the property.

There is a narrow Japan exception

Airbnb notes a specific exception for certain homes in Japan with a Hotel Business License where applicable law may require an interior entryway camera. Airbnb says those cameras must be disclosed, cannot monitor spaces outside the entryway, and cannot record audio.

This should not be treated as a general exception elsewhere.

Exterior cameras can be allowed

Airbnb allows exterior security cameras and recording devices when they comply with Airbnb policy and applicable law.

Common examples can include a front-door camera, driveway camera, front-yard camera, or exterior camera monitoring an entry approach.

Exterior cameras cannot monitor high-privacy areas

Airbnb specifically prohibits cameras from monitoring outdoor areas where guests have a greater expectation of privacy, such as the inside of an enclosed outdoor shower or inside a sauna.

A camera being physically outside does not automatically make its viewing area acceptable.

Hosts must disclose exterior camera locations

Airbnb requires hosts to disclose the presence and location of exterior cameras in the listing. Airbnb’s examples include descriptions such as a camera in the front yard, over the patio, over the pool, or a doorbell camera monitoring the front door.

The disclosure should be specific enough that a guest understands where recording can occur.

Do not use vague wording

“Security cameras on property” is less useful than “Exterior doorbell camera monitors the front entrance.” Clear location-based disclosure reduces surprise and makes it easier to check whether the device complies with policy.

What counts as a camera or recording device?

Airbnb defines the category broadly enough to include devices that record or transmit video, images, or audio, including devices such as baby monitors or doorbell cameras when they function as recording devices.

Noise decibel monitors are treated differently

Airbnb allows noise decibel monitors inside homes when they comply with policy. Hosts must disclose that a noise monitor is present, but Airbnb says hosts do not need to disclose its exact location.

Noise monitors are not allowed in bedrooms, bathrooms, or sleeping areas.

Noise monitors should measure sound level, not conversations

A legitimate decibel monitor is designed to measure noise level. Hosts should verify the device’s functions and local privacy law before installation, especially if a device can record or transmit audio rather than merely measure volume.

Smart home devices can still create privacy issues

Smart displays, voice assistants, doorbells, thermostats, occupancy sensors, and other devices can include microphones, cameras, logs, or remote-access features. Review what each device actually captures.

A device marketed as “smart home” is not exempt from Airbnb’s privacy rules if it functions as a camera or recording device.

Local law still applies

Airbnb’s rules are platform rules, not a replacement for surveillance, audio-recording, privacy, landlord, condo, or local short-term rental law. A device allowed by Airbnb may still be restricted by local law, and a device required by local law may need special handling.

Create a security-device inventory

For every device, record:

• property;
• device type;
• exact physical location;
• area monitored;
• whether it records video;
• whether it records audio;
• who can access recordings;
• retention settings;
• Airbnb disclosure status;
• local-law review;
• date last checked.

Review camera angle after maintenance

A camera can remain physically in the same place while its angle changes during cleaning, construction, or maintenance. Periodically confirm that the field of view still matches the disclosure and does not capture a prohibited privacy area.

Remove obsolete devices from the listing

If a camera is removed, update Airbnb’s safety-device disclosure. If a new exterior camera is installed, update the listing before guests arrive.

Do not store security credentials in an open binder

Passwords, camera admin logins, cloud-account credentials, and live smart-lock codes should stay in secure credential storage. A property binder can record that the device exists, its maintenance history, and where the secure credential is managed without exposing the credential itself.

Security-camera compliance checklist

• no indoor security cameras or recording devices;
• no hidden cameras;
• exterior camera locations disclosed;
• camera does not view high-privacy outdoor areas;
• noise monitor disclosed;
• noise monitor not in bedroom, bathroom, or sleeping area;
• device audio/video functions understood;
• local privacy law checked;
• camera angle verified;
• old devices removed from listing disclosures;
• credentials stored securely.

Where the Property Management Binder fits

The Property Management Binder can organize device inventories, maintenance checks, vendor information, safety records, access notes, and incident documentation. It should not contain unsecured passwords or live access codes.

For the broader property-safety system, see Vacation Rental Safety Checklist and Airbnb Key & Access Code Log.

Frequently asked questions

Can Airbnb hosts have cameras inside the property?

No. Airbnb prohibits security cameras and recording devices that monitor any part of the interior of a home listing, even if the device is turned off or disconnected, subject to a narrow Japan-specific exception described by Airbnb.

Can Airbnb hosts use outdoor cameras?

Yes, subject to Airbnb’s disclosure and privacy rules and applicable local law. Exterior cameras cannot monitor areas where guests have a heightened expectation of privacy.

Are noise monitors allowed?

Airbnb allows disclosed noise decibel monitors, but they are not allowed in bedrooms, bathrooms, or sleeping areas.