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5 Key CCTV Considerations for Car Parks in 2026

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5 Key CCTV Considerations for Car Parks in 2026

Installing or upgrading CCTV for car parks? Here are the five questions UK decision-makers most often ask our installation team. We cover legal requirements, practical camera placement, and cost considerations for 2026.

1. What is ANPR and do I need it for my car park?

ANPR stands for Automatic Number Plate Recognition and it captures images of vehicle registration plates. It is crucial for enforcing site access control, tracking vehicle movements, or managing parking revenue. While not always mandatory, ANPR is highly recommended if you need detailed accountability regarding who enters and exits the car park.

2. How many cameras does a multi-storey car park need?

There is no fixed number, as the requirement depends on the car park's size and layout complexity. You must ensure comprehensive coverage, placing cameras at all entry/exit points, key junctions, and vulnerable ground areas. Strategically positioned overlapping fields of view are essential for eliminating blind spots.

3. Can CCTV reduce car park vandalism significantly?

Yes, CCTV acts as a significant deterrent, often discouraging opportunistic vandalism before it occurs. Footage is invaluable as evidence, allowing police and insurers to quickly identify perpetrators. Visible cameras alone can significantly improve the perceived security and discourage criminal activity.

4. What are the lighting requirements for effective car park CCTV?

Cameras require consistent, even illumination, particularly during low light and night hours. This means supplementing natural light with adequate LED lighting throughout the site. Proper lighting ensures clear footage, preventing the cameras from struggling with shadows or poor contrast.

5. Do electric vehicle charging points need dedicated cameras?

Dedicated coverage is recommended for visibility and theft prevention. Cameras should monitor the charging point, the immediate surrounding area, and the associated cables. This ensures accountability for theft or vandalism targeting the charging equipment or cables.

Need a Free Site Survey?

Get in touch with our team today to arrange a free, no-obligation site survey. Call 07830 638 337 or visit our main pillar page for more information: Car Parks CCTV Guide

This guide was updated in May 2026. Regulations and best practices may change. Always consult a qualified security installer for your specific situation.

About the Author

Gary Pearce is a UK-based CCTV and security system installer with over 10 years of experience. He provides free no-obligation site surveys across the North West and North East of England.

  • Phone: 07830 638 337
  • GitHub: https://github.com/gazpearce/gary-ai-assistant