When operating some CCTV systems in a public place, all of the following must be put into practice and suitable documentation kept to record the methods used:

• By law, there has to be a person or organisation responsible for the scheme
• The appropriateness and reasons for using CCTV need be established.
• The purpose of the scheme must be notified to the Data Protection Commissioner.
• Operators of the scheme need to be made aware of the purpose, and can only use it for that purpose.
• The equipment must be limited to cover only those areas designated.
• Operators should not be able to adjust or manipulate cameras to cover areas not declared as part of the scheme.
• If it is not possible to restrict camera coverage of unauthorised areas, operators are required to be properly trained to recognise the privacy implications of covering such areas.
• Signs should be placed to warn that the public are entering an area covered by CCTV.
• The signs should be clearly visible and legible and will vary in size according to circumstances.
• Signs should give the identity of the person or organisation responsible for the scheme, contact details and the purpose of the scheme.
• It is permitted in extreme circumstances not to have signs, but this rule is subject to stringent conditions.
• Information obtained by CCTV is only to be used for prevention or detection of criminal activity, or the apprehension and prosecution of offenders. It should not be used for any other purpose.
• It is not permitted to make sound recordings of any person without their knowledge.