Surveillance cameras

How is the surveillance conducted?

Surveillance can be carried out in public spaces or areas where a limited group of people usually pass, such as workplaces. Electronic surveillance covers instances where personal information is processed or stored, for example, when footage from electronic surveillance is preserved for a specific period and instances where the footage is not stored but is, for example, displayed on a monitored television screen by staff.

Footage may be viewed only on special occasions and solely by individuals who have clear authorization. Generally, footage is not kept for more than 30 days unless in special cases, for instance, based on legal grounds or at the request of the police, and sometimes even shorter.

When surveillance cameras are network-connected, special care is taken to secure the footage and ensure that unauthorized parties do not have access.

Can the City publicly disclose footage of me?

No, Reykjavík City neither disseminates nor publicly discloses the content without clear consent from those depicted in the footage.

However, Reykjavík City is generally obligated to hand over footage resulting from electronic surveillance to the police if necessary.

Reykjavík City may also share footage with insurance companies or the police when accidents have occurred involving individuals and/or property damage, and the footage is considered significantly important for investigating the case or assessing whether it involves liable or insured conduct. We generally seek to notify relevant parties about such disclosure when possible.

May I view the footage if I or my child is subjected to electronic surveillance?

Those subjected to electronic surveillance generally have the right to view the footage unless other interests are considered more significant.

Viewing requests can be made by sending an email or calling 411-1111. Responses to data viewing requests and, where applicable, their delivery are as prompt as possible, generally within seven days from the receipt of the request. Reykjavík City is, however, required to evaluate the footage each time an access request is received to ensure that the requester has an interest in viewing the footage and that it does not infringe on the privacy of others when applicable.

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Electronic surveillance must always have a clear and objective purpose.

Electronic surveillance by Reykjavík City occurs, for example, when it is necessary for the legitimate interests of Reykjavík City or others. There may be legal obligations to conduct surveillance, for example, to ensure the safety of employees and service users. Camera surveillance may be necessary, among other reasons, to prevent theft or property damage.

Reykjavík City is responsible for electronic surveillance that takes place at City workplaces.

This means that the rights of those under surveillance are protected and the security of personal information must be adequate. This is particularly important when the surveillance is conducted in areas where vulnerable groups are involved, such as people in vulnerable social conditions. Reykjavík City also deems it important that surveillance is clearly marked so that everyone is aware that monitoring is taking place and where cameras are located. Reykjavík City never conducts surveillance in secret.