Dash cams are legal in Kansas with clear placement rules to ensure driver visibility. State law prohibits non-transparent objects that significantly obstruct the windshield view, applying directly to dash cams.
Placement Rules
Mount dash cams on the dashboard or behind the rearview mirror to fully comply, as these spots avoid any view obstruction.
Windshield mounting is allowed if it does not “significantly obstruct” the driver’s field of vision—typically behind the rearview mirror or in low-obstruction areas—but dashboard placement is safest.
No specific size limits exist, unlike states such as Arizona (5 sq in driver’s side). Audio recording follows Kansas’s one-party consent rule under K.S.A. 21-6101, meaning you can record conversations without notifying passengers in your vehicle.
Usage Guidelines
Footage is admissible in court for accidents, insurance claims, or disputes, often strengthening cases by providing objective evidence. No laws restrict recording while parked (if powered), but privacy concerns arise if capturing private property—public roads are fair game.
Commercial fleets face similar rules, with no extra mandates beyond obstruction bans.
Violations and Penalties
Improper placement risks a traffic citation for obstructed view under Kansas Statute K.S.A. 8-1528, typically a $50-$100 fine depending on the locale. Officers assess based on whether the cam meaningfully impairs safe driving.
| Placement Option | Legal? | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard | Yes | Adhesive mount; fully compliant |
| Behind rearview mirror | Yes | Minimal obstruction |
| Windshield (general) | Conditional | No significant block; avoid driver’s direct sight |
| Side windows/rear | Generally yes | If no obstruction ] |
Additional Notes
Always secure the device to prevent detachment. No 2026 updates alter these rules; check local ordinances for cities like Wichita or Kansas City, KS, which align with state standards. Dash cams promote accountability without legal hurdles when placed correctly.
SOURCES :
- https://gpstrackit.com/blog/what-are-the-dashcam-regulations-in-each-state/
- https://mocobizscene.com/us-news/understanding-dash-cam-regulations-in-kansas
