Navigating Security Compliance: A Guide for Property Owners in George’s County, Maryland

Summary

• A new law in Prince George’s County mandates AI-powered cameras on all exterior doors of large apartment buildings and senior housing to enhance public housing security with a $5,000 rebate to offset costs.
• Property owners must install 24/7 surveillance systems, retain video for 30 days, and meet a June 1, 2025 compliance deadline or risk fines.
• Proactive implementation can improve security operations, tenant satisfaction, and property value.

‍

If you own or manage a multi-unit apartment complex or senior living residence in Prince George’s County, Maryland, there’s a big change coming your way. On June 1, 2025, new security requirements will go into effect that directly impact your property.

In a move designed to boost public housing security, the county has passed legislation requiring AI-powered cameras to be installed on all exterior doors of apartment buildings with more than 100 units, as well as senior housing complexes. These cameras must be operational 24/7, and video footage must be stored for at least 30 days.

Why This Law Was Passed

According to County Council Vice Chair Wala Blegay, the bill was inspired by an uptick in resident concerns, especially from tenants whose cars had been broken into or who felt unsafe in and around their buildings. The feedback was clear: people want to feel safer in their homes. And one of the fastest ways to accomplish that? Cameras.

“Even just having the cameras in itself, not only does it deter crime, but it actually makes people feel safe,” Blegay said.

This new law is part of a larger trend across the country to modernize public housing security by blending technology with accountability.

What If My Property Doesn’t Qualify?

Not every property in Prince George’s County falls under this mandate. To be subject to the law, your building must meet one of two criteria:

1. Be a multi-family dwelling with more than 100 units, or
2. Be a senior housing residence, regardless of unit count

If your property falls outside those categories, you’re not currently required to install surveillance. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider it. Many property owners are voluntarily investing in security upgrades to protect tenants, reduce liability, and boost property value.

What the Law Requires (and When) for Those Who Qualify

If you’re a landlord or manager in Prince George’s County with a property that qualifies, you are required to:

1. Install 24-hour surveillance cameras on all exterior entry points.
2. Maintain the camera system and keep it in good working order.
3. Retain footage for 30 days minimum.
4. Comply with the June 1 deadline.
   
   1. Note: If your property is older or lacks existing infrastructure, you may qualify for an extension of up to one year.
5. Avoid fines: If a camera breaks and isn’t repaired, you could face a $500 penalty.

To ease the financial burden, the county is offering a $5,000 rebate to help offset installation costs. And yes, that includes modern options like AI-powered systems.

Understanding AI-Powered Cameras

AI-powered cameras are a big step up from traditional surveillance. These aren’t just recording devices—they’re part of a smarter, faster security ecosystem. Here’s what sets them apart:

• Motion-based alerts: Cameras can detect unusual movement and send instant notifications.
• Night vision & wide-angle lenses: Provide full coverage, even in low-light areas.
• Threat recognition: AI systems can distinguish between a stray cat and a potential intruder.
• Real-time tracking: Some systems can follow movement across multiple angles or locations.
• Automatic flagging: Relevant footage is prioritized, saving you hours of review time.

These capabilities not only create stronger security operations overall but also help your team (or local law enforcement) respond faster and more effectively.

What Counts as Compliant?

Here’s what you need to stay within regulation:

• Cameras cover all exterior entrances and exits
• Surveillance system operates 24/7 without gaps
• Video storage retains 30 days of footage at all times
• Camera data is secure, encrypted, and access-controlled
• Cameras are repaired promptly when damaged
• Property owners respond to county inspection or audit requests

One helpful step? Work with a provider that specializes in public housing security. Companies like LiveView Technologies® (LVT) offer mobile, solar-powered units and mounted units that are easy to deploy and packed with AI features, making compliance easier even if your building doesn’t have existing wiring.

How to Choose a Camera System

There are dozens of options on the market, but not all are created equal. Look for systems that offer:

• High-definition video
• Cloud-based storage or secure on-site server
• AI analytics and motion detection
• 24/7 uptime and mobile alerts
• User-friendly dashboard for footage review

Privacy and Legal Considerations

One concern many landlords share is whether cameras will expose them to legal trouble. They won’t—as long as you follow best practices.

• Don’t place cameras in private areas like inside units or aimed at windows.
• Make sure footage access is limited to authorized users, such as property staff or law enforcement.
• Use data encryption and password protection to keep footage secure.
• Be transparent with residents by posting signs and including language in lease agreements about video surveillance.

This law is focused on public housing security, not private intrusion. As long as your cameras stay on the right side of that line, you’re good to go.

The Long-Term Benefits

It’s true that this law adds a layer of responsibility for landlords, but it also offers some major advantages:

• Crime deterrence: Studies show visible surveillance reduces crimes like theft, trespassing, and vandalism.
• Liability protection: Having documented footage can protect you in legal disputes or insurance claims.
• Higher property value: Security features are a key selling point for potential renters, especially in senior housing.
• Increased resident satisfaction: Tenants who feel safe are more likely to renew leases and recommend your property to others.

In a competitive housing market, being known as a safe, secure place to live is a serious (and profitable) advantage.

What Happens If I Don’t Comply?

Failure to comply can result in:

• $500 fines per incident (i.e., per unrepaired or missing camera)
• Potential tenant complaints or lawsuits in unsafe conditions
• Loss of rebate or incentive eligibility
• Damage to your reputation as a landlord or property manager

Get Ahead of the Deadline

The June 1 deadline is fast approaching. Get your property ready today by:

1. Reviewing your property’s eligibility under the new law.
2. Scheduling a security audit to identify blind spots and technical requirements.
3. Requesting quotes from surveillance providers, especially those offering AI-powered systems.
4. Applying for the $5,000 rebate (once the county portal opens).
5. Installing and testing the new security system.
6. Training your staff on how to use the footage system and respond to alerts.

Being proactive now will save you time, money, and stress later.

Next Steps

This new law is an opportunity to modernize your security operations, protect your residents, and increase your property’s long-term value.

Need help getting started? LVT offers customizable, AI-powered security solutions built for multi-unit dwellings and dynamic housing environments. Contact us today for a free demo or consultation.