Andorra agency launches campaign on video surveillance rules and one-month footage limit

The Andorran Data Protection Agency (APDA) has launched an information campaign reminding individuals, companies and public administrations of the legal obligations attached to video surveillance systems, including a general rule that recorded footage must be deleted within one month.

The agency said images should be kept only as long as necessary, with a maximum retention period of one month unless circumstances such as a police investigation or judicial or administrative proceedings justify a longer period. The requirement is among a set of conditions the APDA is highlighting as part of the campaign.

It said camera use must respond to a legitimate and specific purpose, and that footage should be limited to strictly necessary spaces. Recording private areas without justification is prohibited, as is using footage for purposes other than those that prompted the installation.

Systems that capture images or sound from public roads, public spaces or areas open to the public require prior authorisation from the ministry responsible for interior affairs, following a binding report from the National Video Surveillance Commission. Private cameras that do not record such spaces fall under a prior notification regime.

The agency also stressed that the presence of cameras must be indicated with visible signs stating the purpose of the recordings, the identity of the data controller and the rights of affected individuals. Access to footage must be restricted to authorised staff, and those responsible must adopt measures to guarantee security and confidentiality. Where a system poses a high risk to people's rights, a data protection impact assessment is required.

The campaign follows a rise in complaints and queries about cameras installed on streets and building exteriors. The APDA has said many devices appear to be undeclared and that numerous signs fail to meet legal requirements — some refer to outdated legislation, while others show only a camera symbol without the minimum information the law demands.

As part of the push, the agency is targeting shop and business owners in particular, reminding them that installing an exterior camera involves more than simply mounting a device where they see fit. Jèssica Obiols, who heads the agency, said growing interest in video surveillance made it a good moment to set out the legal requirements for anyone planning to install a camera outside their premises.

On Thursday evening, the agency distributed informational posters in parts of Avinguda Meritxell, Plaça de la Rotonda and Carrer Prat de la Creu. Obiols said the areas were chosen for logistical reasons and their proximity to the APDA's offices in a building of the Consell General, rather than because they are considered especially problematic or have more undeclared cameras.

The campaign slogan is "The camera records. You are responsible," and the posters feature a QR code linking to a full explanation of the requirements for installing a camera and the procedures that must be followed.