Yes, Wisconsin permits dashcams for personal and commercial use, provided operators comply with state privacy and traffic laws. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and state courts recognize dashcam footage as admissible evidence in civil and criminal proceedings, but consent requirements apply in certain contexts. Local ordinances, such as those in Milwaukee County, may impose additional restrictions on continuous recording in public spaces.
Key Regulations for Dashcams in Wisconsin
- Two-Party Consent for Audio: Wisconsin’s wiretapping statute (Wis. Stat. § 968.31) mandates all-party consent for audio recording. Dashcams capturing audio must disable recording when conversations occur in private settings (e.g., inside homes or vehicles with non-consenting occupants).
- Obstruction of View Prohibited: WisDOT regulations (Chapter Trans 305) prohibit dashcam mounts that obstruct the driver’s forward view or interfere with vehicle safety systems. Suction-cup or dashboard mounts must not extend beyond the rearview mirror’s perimeter.
- Commercial Fleet Compliance: Businesses operating dashcams in fleet vehicles must comply with Wisconsin’s data retention laws (Wis. Stat. § 196.035) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) 2026 electronic logging device (ELD) mandates, which may require secure storage of footage for 6 months.
Violations of audio consent laws may result in civil penalties up to $10,000, while obstruction violations carry fines up to $200 under Wis. Stat. § 347.48. Operators should review local municipal codes, as some cities (e.g., Madison) impose additional signage requirements for commercial dashcam use.