Webcams and Privacy

We understand that many people have questions and concerns about webcams in public places. In Canada, there is no legal expectation of privacy in public areas. However, we take your privacy seriously and design our webcam placement and operation with privacy protection in mind.

Our cameras are strategically positioned to capture scenic views of Nova Scotia while avoiding the identification of individuals. This approach respects both the public nature of these spaces and the privacy expectations of the people in them.

DORI Standard

Our webcam operations follow the DORI standard, a technical standard that defines surveillance camera capability levels based on image resolution and pixel density. DORI stands for Detect, Observe, Recognize, and Identify – representing the progression of what a camera can capture. We deliberately operate our cameras at resolution levels that prevent facial recognition and individual identification, ensuring we capture scenic views without identifying people.

Detection – The detection level allows for reliable and easy determination of whether a person or vehicle is present.
Observation – The observation level gives characteristic details of an individual, such as distinctive clothing, while allowing a view of activity surrounding an incident.
Recognition – The recognition level determines with a high degree of certainty whether an individual shown is the same as someone that has been seen before.
Identify – The identification level enables the identity of an individual beyond a reasonable doubt.

Camera Placement and Design

In reality this means our webcams are:

Positioned at heights and angles that capture landscapes and scenery rather than faces and personal details
Placed in well-known public areas where people expect to be visible
Avoided in sensitive areas such as residential properties, medical facilities, or other private establishments

Your Privacy Rights

If you have concerns about a specific camera location or believe your privacy has been compromised, please contact us. We take all privacy concerns seriously and will investigate any issues promptly.