FAQs • Edina, MN • CivicEngage

Why does the Police Department need access to private video footage?: When a crime occurs, video footage is one of the most valuable tools available to investigators and officers. Knowing the location of video surveillance systems allows the Police to quickly reach out to those owners and ask for their footage, instead of trying to track down where video footage exists, if at all.

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SafeCam

1. What is the SafeCam program?: The SafeCam program was launched in December 2021 by the Edina Police Department. It is a 100 percent voluntary, opt-in initiative that allows residents and businesses to register the location of their private video surveillance systems with the department. This allows officers to contact them should a crime occur in or near where the camera is installed. Opting in to the SafeCam program does not give Edina Police access to video footage until granted by the home or business owner. Interested property owners can register here.

2. Why does the Police Department need access to private video footage?: When a crime occurs, video footage is one of the most valuable tools available to investigators and officers. Knowing the location of video surveillance systems allows the Police to quickly reach out to those owners and ask for their footage, instead of trying to track down where video footage exists, if at all.

3. Do other police departments have programs like this?: Yes. Edina is one of several agencies in the metro and the state of Minnesota that have similar programs, called SafeCam or otherwise.

4. What kind of cameras could be registered?: Any kind of video surveillance cameras are important – video doorbells, wireless video camera systems, and home security cameras are just some of the common types. Note – registering for the SafeCam program only records the address and basic characteristics of the cameras, not the brand or serial number of the cameras.

5. Does the Police Department have direct access to my video footage?: No. Registering for the SafeCam program only adds an address to the Police Department’s database and map of camera locations throughout the City. If a crime occurs in the area and video footage is needed, the Police Department will reach out directly to the owner to request the footage.

6. Can I opt out?: Yes. Once registered for the SafeCam program, you may opt out of the program at any time by calling the Police Department at 952-826-1610.