GovWire

If you are using a bodycam or a headcam for security purposes then you may need an SIA licence.

This page explains when you will and will not need a licence.

You should seek independent legal advice if you are still not sure whether you need a licence after reading this page.

When you need a front line licence

Video from a bodycam or headcam is usually watched live by someone in another location, or is recorded and then watched later.

If you work in a security role and you watch footage captured by a bodycam or a headcam as part of your job, then you are likely to need an SIA licence. The specific licence you need will depend on the activities you carry out.

You need a public space surveillance (CCTV) licence if you are working under a contract for services and you use closed circuit video surveillance to identify people or monitor their activities for either or both of the following purposes:

• to guard premises against disorder or damage
• to guard people against being injured or assaulted because of unlawful conduct by others

This includes using closed circuit video surveillance:

• to stop these things from happening
• to provide information about them if they do happen, including by viewing recorded footage

You need a close protection, door supervisor, security guard or public space surveillance (CCTV) licence if you are working under a contract for services and you use closed circuit video surveillance for either or both of the following purposes:

• to guard premises against unauthorised access
• to guard property against damage or theft

You still need an SIA licence even if the CCTV footage you are viewing is from a bodycam or a headcam.

When you need a non-front line licence

You need a non-front line licence if:

• you will not personally be doing the activity described above, but will be managing or supervising people who will
• you are a partner or director in a company that uses bodycams or headcams for such purposes

Director includes executive and non-executive directors, shadow directors, parent company directors, and corporate entities holding a directorship.

When you do not need a licence

You do not need an SIA licence if you wear a bodycam or headcam but do not watch any of the footage from that device.