Security cameras are an important safeguard for bars, restaurants, and breweries. They help deter theft, protect employees and customers, and provide valuable evidence in the event of an incident. But one key question many business owners overlook is: how long should you keep the video?
Why Retention Matters
Holding onto footage for the right amount of time can protect your business from liability while avoiding unnecessary storage costs. If you don’t keep the video long enough, you may lose valuable evidence. Keep it too long, and you may waste money or even expose your business to privacy concerns.
Factors That Influence Retention Policies
Legal Requirements
Some states and municipalities have specific regulations regarding the retention period for video, particularly in industries that serve alcohol. For example, certain liquor authorities or gaming commissions may require footage to be kept for 30, 60, or even 90 days. Always check your local and state laws before setting your policy.
Industry Best Practices
Even when laws are not specific, insurers and security professionals often recommend a minimum of 30 days for bars and restaurants. This allows time for delayed reporting of incidents such as slips, falls, theft, or altercations.
Business Risk Profile
If your establishment has higher risks, such as late-night hours, large crowds, or alcohol-related incidents, it may be wise to keep footage longer. On the other hand, smaller cafés or breweries with fewer liability exposures may not need extended retention.
Storage Capabilities
Modern cloud-based systems make it easier to store video for longer periods without the hardware limitations of older DVR systems. However, longer storage still comes with added cost, so balancing security with budget is important.
Practical Retention Guidelines for Hospitality Businesses
Hospitality Insurance Group suggests the following as a starting point:
- 30 days: A common standard for most establishments, balancing risk and cost.
- 60–90 days: Recommended for high-traffic venues or businesses with greater exposure to liability claims.
- Longer-term (6–12 months): Consider only if required by law or if your business is at exceptionally high risk.
No matter what policy you choose, be sure it is written down, communicated to staff, and consistently followed.
Protecting Your Business with Good Policies
Video retention is not just about storage; it’s about protecting your employees, your customers, and your reputation. A clear policy ensures that if an incident occurs, you have the evidence you need while avoiding unnecessary costs or compliance issues.
At Hospitality Insurance Group, we help businesses prepare for risks both large and small. From safety practices to insurance coverage, we are here to help protect your bar, restaurant, or brewery.