Is Hidden Cameras & Surveillance Devices Legal in Hawaii? (2026)
Partially — Hidden Cameras & Surveillance Devices are legal with restrictions in Hawaii as of 2026.
Law changed in 2022: In January 2022, a bill was introduced in the Hawaii House to explicitly give the public the right to record police activity, reflecting an ongoing debate about the role of citizen surveillance in police accountability. There have been no other major...
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Quick Answer
Hawaii law permits the use of hidden cameras in public or common areas but prohibits recording in places where a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as bathrooms or changing rooms. Under Hawaii Revised Statutes § 711-1110.7, it is illegal to install or use a hidden camera to record a person without their consent in private areas.
What the Law Says
Hawaii Revised Statutes § 711-1110.7 makes it illegal to install or use a hidden camera to record a person without their consent in private areas where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy, classifying such violations as a misdemeanor.
— Hawaii Revised Statutes § 711-1110.7
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Private Property Rules | Possession of hidden cameras is legal; however, use is restricted to avoid violating privacy laws. |
| Audio Recording Rules | Sale of hidden cameras is legal with no specific restrictions. |
| Criminal Penalties | Violations can result in misdemeanor charges with fines and/or imprisonment up to 1 year under HRS § 711-1110.7. |
| Age Restriction | None |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
In January 2022, a bill was introduced in the Hawaii House to explicitly give the public the right to record police activity, reflecting an ongoing debate about the role of citizen surveillance in police accountability. There have been no other major recent changes to the state's surveillance laws.
Enforcement Reality
Hawaii's law against violation of privacy is a misdemeanor, and it is enforced, particularly in cases of installing or using surveillance devices in private places. The one-party consent for audio is a key legal distinction.
A common mistake is not understanding that while Hawaii is a one-party consent state for audio, it is still illegal to use a hidden camera to record in a private place without consent. The location of the recording is a critical factor.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Hawaii. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Hidden Cameras & Surveillance Devices are legal with restrictions in Hawaii. This product is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
Hawaii vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, using hidden cameras is fully legal in 0 states, restricted in 46, and illegal in 4. Hawaii falls in the RESTRICTED category.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to use Hidden Cameras & Surveillance Devices in Hawaii?
What are the restrictions on using hidden cameras in Hawaii?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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