The Council of State has set 1 July 2026 as the date of entry into force of the new Cantonal Act on Public Video Surveillance (LViSo).
This Act represents a particularly significant development in Ticino in the field of data protection and privacy. Adopted by the Grand Council in June 2025, it provides detailed regulation of the use of video surveillance on public land and administrative assets.
For the entities to which the Act applies — the Canton, Municipalities, semi-public bodies and private parties entrusted with public functions — the new legislation represents a particularly important step, introducing clear obligations and direct responsibilities in the management of video surveillance systems.
The importance of Article 2 should be emphasised, as it defines the scope of application of the Act: it applies only when video surveillance is used for purposes of public security and order, protection of health and hygiene, or logistical needs. The entities and stakeholders concerned should take into account that the use of video surveillance for purposes other than those indicated falls outside the scope of this Act.
The Act introduces a structured and differentiated framework for the use of such systems. The parties concerned are required to pay attention to the different regimes applicable to the various types of video surveillance: observational, deterrent and invasive (see Articles 5, 6 and 7 LViSo). For example, invasive systems are prohibited on public land. This approach differs from that provided for under the Police Act, which allows for more incisive and flexible tools in specific operational contexts (see Articles 5, 6 and 7 LViSo).
Of particular practical value is the material made available by the Cantonal Data Protection Officer. The relevant portal provides, in addition to the message of the Council of State and legislative documentation, a standard implementing regulation addressed to the entities concerned, as well as templates for regulations and privacy notices. These operational tools help facilitate compliance with the new rules. The page dedicated to video surveillance on the Data Protection Officer’s website also contains specific guidance, including information on access to video recordings by Municipal Executives and a communication from the Council of State concerning the use of dashboard cameras and body cameras by the police, which forms part of the broader regulatory framework governing surveillance tools.
Employers will be required to apply the new legislation while always taking account of federal law, in particular Article 26 of Ordinance 3 to the Employment Act, which imposes limits on video surveillance in the workplace in order to protect employees’ personality rights: in particular, the prohibition on monitoring employee behaviour.
In conclusion, the LViSo constitutes an important development that requires careful assessment by public bodies and private entities involved in the performance of public tasks. Prompt analysis and adjustment are essential to ensure compliance and responsible management of video surveillance systems.
