Nebraska permits dash cams but regulates their placement and audio recording to ensure road safety and privacy. Key rules stem from windshield obstruction statutes and wiretap consent laws, with dashboard mounting as the safest option.
Mounting Requirements
Dash cams must not obstruct the driver’s view, per Nebraska Revised Statute § 60-6,267, which bans objects on windshields that impair visibility.
Install on the dashboard rather than suction-mounting to the windshield, avoiding tickets up to $150 for accidents linked to obstructions. Rear-facing cams are fine if non-obstructive.
Audio Recording Rules
Nebraska follows “all-party consent” for audio in private conversations, requiring passenger permission before recording inside the vehicle.
Video-only dash cams face no such limits, but enable privacy modes for rideshares or family trips to comply.
Usage Permissions
No bans exist on dash cam ownership, operation, or footage use in court for insurance claims or liability—provided legal capture. Commercial fleets must also adhere, with no extra federal mandates beyond FMCSA safety guidelines.
Enforcement and Penalties
Officers can’t pull over solely for a dash cam, but post-accident scrutiny applies if it contributed to hazards. Fines range $50–$150 escalating by offense; illegal audio risks civil suits under privacy laws.
State Comparisons
| Aspect | Nebraska Rule | Neighboring Example |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield Mount | Prohibited if obstructive | Iowa: Allowed low corner |
| Audio Consent | All-party | Kansas: One-party |
| Dashboard OK? | Yes | All states |
| Rear Cam | Yes, non-obstructive | Yes |
Practical Tips
Position cams low-center on the dash for optimal view without glare; test for blind spots. Notify passengers verbally for audio compliance, and secure footage promptly for disputes.
Nebraska balances innovation with safety, treating dash cams as tools rather than hazards.
SOURCES:
- https://matrackinc.com/dash-cam-laws-by-states/
- https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
