You've had the cameras installed for years. Nothing has ever happened. And suddenly a notification arrives from the Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD) with a financial penalty. How is that possible?
It happens more than it seems. In 2024, the AEPD imposed almost fifty CCTV-related penalties — and the vast majority went to small businesses, bars and shops. Not out of bad faith, but out of not knowing.
The most common mistakes
No information sign — or badly placed. It's the most frequent breach. The law requires you to warn with a visible sign that the premises are under CCTV. If you don't have one, or it's hidden where no one sees it, you're already in breach.
Cameras pointing at the public thoroughfare: A camera at the entrance that records part of the pavement or the street is a direct breach. You're only allowed to capture the bare minimum strip of the entrance to the premises.
Keeping footage more than 30 days: The rules set a maximum of 30 days' retention. Many recorders store footage for months without anyone reviewing it. That's a breach even if you never intended to use it.
Important figure: the hospitality and retail sector went from €613,800 in fines in 2024 to over €10.7 million in 2025. The AEPD has significantly stepped up its inspection activity.
How to be covered from day one
✓ Visible signage at every entrance to the premises, with the controller's details and how to exercise rights.
✓ Angles checked: no camera should capture the public thoroughfare beyond the entrance threshold. ✓ Recorder set to a maximum of 30 days' storage and with automatic overwriting.
✓ Record of processing if you have employees — the AEPD requires this too.
Compliance isn't complicated if the system comes properly configured from the start. The problem usually comes when something is installed with no further advice and no one checks whether everything is in order.
Cameras that comply from day one
Every Chollobar pack includes the legal signage and we support you with the setup so everything is in order from the very first moment.
From €279 + VAT · All included · No fees
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