The California Main Records Act (California Penal Code § 632.) provides that it is a bipartisan state of consent. In California, it is a criminal offense to use any device to record communications, whether wired, oral, or electronic, without the consent of all persons involved in the communication. This means that in California, you are not legally allowed to record a conversation in which you participate, unless all parties agree. However, there are a few exceptions such as: Some common situations where you would be legally able to record videos: You need to inquire about your local state`s laws to get more information, but to keep it short and simple. The answer to the question “Is it illegal to record someone without their consent?” depends on where the recording takes place and whether the audio is included in that recording. The federal wiretapping law and state wiretap laws are based on audio recording, so you`ll find that the laws regarding sound recording are much stricter. When it comes to location, a good rule of thumb is that if you`re in a public place where privacy isn`t expected, you`re allowed to record. Because of California`s role as a center of the global entertainment industry, the state has also passed several unique laws regarding celebrities and paparazzi. For example, California Civil Code Section 1708.8 makes it illegal to take photos, videos, or audio recordings of people who “engage in any private, personal, or family activity.” California Penal Code § 647(k)(1) Violation of California`s video recording laws may result in up to 1 year in jail in jail or a fine of up to $2,000. or by a fine and imprisonment.