FAQs • Fridley, MN • CivicEngage

Why does Fridley Public Safety 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 officers 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 FAQ

1. What is the SafeCam program?: The SafeCam program was launched in the Spring of 2022 by the Fridley Public Safety 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 Fridley Public Safety access to video footage until granted by the home or business owner. Interested property owners can register here.

2. Why does Fridley Public Safety 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 officers 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 cities have programs like this?: Yes. Fridley is one of several cities in Minnesota and the country that have similar programs, called SafeCam or otherwise.

4. What kind of cameras could be registered?: Any kind of video surveillance cameras are important. Some common types include video doorbells, wireless video camera systems and home security systems. Registering for the SafeCam program only records the addresses 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 Public Safety Department's database and map of camera locations throughout Fridley. If a crime occurs in the area video footage is needed, the Public Safety 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 Public Safety Department at 763-572-3629.