Installing a CCTV system in Singapore is a prudent step toward enhancing security. However, it’s crucial to adhere to the legal frameworks established by the Housing & Development Board (HDB), Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), and Town Councils to ensure privacy and compliance.
Quick Summary – Legal CCTV Installation Rules (Singapore 2025)
| Property Type | Corridor-Facing Allowed? | Approval Needed? | Key Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDB Flats | Yes (with conditions) | No (as of 2023 update) | Must not face others’ doors/windows; comply with privacy guidelines |
| Condominiums | Varies | Yes (MCST approval) | Varies by condo; indoor installations usually acceptable |
| Landed Property | Yes (with limits) | No (if on own land) | Avoid recording public roads or neighbors’ properties |
| Commercial Spaces | Yes (with permits) | Yes (URA, PDPA compliance) | Must display signage & ensure secure storage of footage |
HDB Rules for CCTV Installation
What’s Not Allowed:
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Cameras facing common corridors or public spaces
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Cameras mounted on external walls, common ceilings, or doors
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Cameras pointing toward neighbors’ units or windows
What’s Allowed:
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Updated Regulation (2023): Residents no longer need HDB approval to install corridor-facing CCTVs within their flats, provided the cameras do not intrude on neighbors’ privacy.
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Temporary installation if facing safety threats (e.g., harassment)
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Must be supported by a Police Report
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Requires Town Council approval
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Must not capture neighbors’ homes or violate their privacy
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Limited to a 6-month installation period
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“Residents may install CCTV cameras at the main door if they are facing safety issues, such as harassment from unlicensed moneylenders… All requests must be supported by a Police report.”
— Ministry of National Development
Smart Devices vs CCTV
Due to privacy concerns, HDB distinguishes between traditional CCTV cameras and smart door devices:
Smart Door Devices Are:
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Allowed inside the unit
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Less intrusive
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Do not require HDB approval if facing your own door area
“With the advancement in technology… these are less intrusive than CCTV cameras and flat owners can easily install them.”
— HDB Statement
Condominiums & MCST By-Laws
Allowed:
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Indoor installation
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Door-facing cameras within your unit
Not Allowed Without Approval:
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Corridor-facing cameras
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Cameras mounted on external walls or shared property
Note: Always check with your condo’s Management Corporation Strata Title (MCST) for written approval before installing.
Landed Property Guidelines
You’re generally free to install CCTV systems if:
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Cameras are placed on your own land or building
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You avoid capturing neighboring homes or public streets
However:
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The Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) still applies if you store personal data
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Use privacy masking and signage for best practices
Commercial & Shopfronts
If you’re operating a shop or office:
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You must comply with URA rules and the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA)
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CCTV footage must be:
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Secured
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Not used beyond its intended purpose
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Displayed with a notice informing surveillance
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Example: “This area is under CCTV surveillance for safety and crime prevention.”
Common Legal Issues
Here’s what happens if you install CCTV cameras illegally:
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HDB or Town Council will ask for removal
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You may be liable under the Community Disputes Resolution Act or Protection from Harassment Act
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Town Councils may charge you for removal and restoration costs
Statistics: Between 2020 and 2022, HDB received over 360 CCTV-related complaints.
What the Experts Say
Lionel Tan, Rajah & Tann:
“It does make sense to install CCTV where there are crime or harassment risks… but permission is still needed.”
Cory Wong, Invictus Law:
“Surveillance from within your home could still be deemed harassment or stalking under the Protection from Harassment Act.”
Data Privacy & Hacking Concerns
Cybersecurity experts warn that improperly installed CCTV systems may be vulnerable to:
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Hacking via Wi-Fi
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Data theft and misuse
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Creation of deepfakes using stolen footage
Best Practices:
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Use secure storage
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Implement strong passwords
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Ensure encrypted connections
How to Stay Safe AND Compliant
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Use Smart Door Devices if you don’t need full CCTV
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Install indoor-facing cameras only
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Seek Town Council or MCST approval for corridor or external views
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Submit a Police report if facing harassment
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Choose systems with privacy masking, motion detection, and PDPA-compliant storage
Protect your home—the legal way.
For more information on the latest HDB guidelines regarding CCTV installations, refer to the Straits Times article.
Need Help Installing Legal CCTV in Singapore?
AIDC Technology (S) Pte Ltd offers compliant, professional CCTV installations for HDBs, condos, shops, and landed properties.
Our Services Include:
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Providing signage, privacy masking & secure storage
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Certified local installers
Contact Us:
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Phone: +65 6251 1260 -
Email: sales@aidc.com.sg
Schedule a FREE Site Survey: Contact Us
FAQ
While DIY installation is possible, a professional installer ensures proper camera placement, wiring, and reliable setup—especially for business or large properties.
Yes, most CCTV systems offer mobile apps or cloud services that let you view live or recorded footage from anywhere using your phone.
Yes, most modern cameras come with infrared (IR) night vision or color night vision. Always check the night vision range (e.g. 10m–30m).
Most systems stop recording during power cuts unless they are connected to a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) or backup battery. For critical setups, it’s recommended to have backup power.
As of 2024, most HDB flats no longer require approval for corridor-facing CCTV, as long as it does not capture neighbours’ private areas.
Yes, if your shop is located in a commercial condo or mall, you may need MCST or landlord approval, especially for exterior cameras.
You can start with a free on-site survey by contacting a licensed provider. This helps ensure the setup fits your layout and budget. Reach out to AIDC Technology at +65 6740 0255 or email sales@aidc.com.sg to schedule a no-obligation visit.
Most systems store footage for 7 to 30 days, but this depends on your business needs and the storage capacity of your NVR or cloud system.
A basic home CCTV system typically costs between $600 and $1,300 for 2 to 4 cameras, depending on the camera type and installation scope.
Commercial CCTV systems usually range from $1,200 to $5,000+, depending on the number of cameras, layout, and storage requirements.
Yes, CCTV is commonly used in retail stores. You should notify customers that recording is in place using signs at entry points.
Key features include HD clarity, night vision, mobile access, motion alerts, and secure video storage.
CCTV signage should be visible and placed at entry points to inform people they are being recorded.
DVRs (Digital Video Recorders) work with analog cameras, while NVRs (Network Video Recorders) are used with IP cameras and offer better resolution and remote access.