Yes, dashcams are legal in the United Kingdom, provided they comply with data protection and road safety regulations. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) permits their use for personal security and evidence collection, but strict rules govern recording and storage to protect privacy.
Key Regulations for Dashcams in United Kingdom
- Data Protection Act 2018 & UK GDPR: Dashcam footage constitutes personal data. Continuous recording in public spaces requires compliance with data minimization principles; excessive or irrelevant footage must be deleted.
- Highway Code Rule 149: Drivers must ensure dashcams do not obstruct vision or distract other road users. Mounting must not impair vehicle safety or contravene construction and use regulations.
- Surveillance Camera Code of Practice (2024): Public-facing recordings (e.g., on roads) must be justified, transparent, and subject to retention limits. The ICO advises displaying visible signage if recording in areas with reasonable privacy expectations.
Dashcams capturing audio require additional consent under the Human Rights Act 1998, as eavesdropping laws may apply. The 2026 update to the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill introduces stricter penalties for non-compliance, including fines up to £17.5 million or 4% of global turnover. Insurers increasingly accept dashcam evidence, but footage must be stored securely and shared only when legally compelled. Failure to adhere risks civil claims or regulatory enforcement by the ICO.