What is the ideal height for CCTV cameras?

For most indoor applications, 2.5-3.5m is ideal. Outdoor cameras work best at 3-5m. Too low makes them vulnerable to tampering; too high increases the angle and reduces facial detail. For identification, keep cameras at 2.5-3m with a slight downward tilt.

How far apart should CCTV cameras be placed?

It depends on the lens and required coverage overlap. With 2.8mm wide-angle lenses, cameras can be 8-12m apart for continuous corridor coverage. For open areas, plan for 20-30% overlap between camera views to eliminate blind spots.

CCTV Camera Placement Guide 2026 — Height, Angle & Coverage (Free)

Optimal Mounting Height

Camera height depends on your objectives and the area being monitored. Too high and you lose facial details; too low and objects obstruct the view.

Facial Recognition (Recognition DORI)

Mount at 1.5-2 meters (5-6.5 feet) high, positioned to capture faces at approximately eye level relative to the target area

Perimeter & Wide Coverage (Detection)

Mount at 3-4 meters (10-13 feet) high for wide area surveillance and preventing obstacles from blocking view

License Plate Capture (Identification)

Mount at 1-1.5 meters (3-5 feet) high, positioned to capture vehicles at a slight downward angle

Ceiling Mount

Ideal for indoor retail and offices. Mount on ceiling with dome cameras pointing downward at 45-90 degrees

Camera Angle Considerations

The angle at which a camera views an area significantly affects what it can see and how useful the footage is.

Angle Guidelines:

Straight on (0°): Best for facial recognition at entry/exit points
45° angle: Good balance between width and detail, useful for most applications
Bird's eye (45-90° down): Shows activity, good for counting people, preventing overhead blindness
Avoid extreme angles: Excessive tilt reduces image quality

Strategic Placement Positions

Corner Mount

Position in room or building corners to maximize coverage. Reduces shadow zones and allows better facial angles.

Entry/Exit Points

Mount to capture faces of people entering and exiting. Position opposite entry point for head-on facial view.

Above Valuables

Position to monitor high-value items, displays, or cash registers with downward angle for detail.

Perimeter Coverage

Mount high to monitor entire perimeter. Position away from direct sunlight to avoid backlighting.

Coverage Patterns

Different spaces require different coverage strategies. Use these patterns as starting points for your design. A camera placement tool can help you visualize these patterns on your actual floor plan before installation.

Hallway Coverage

Single camera per hallway section mounted on ceiling or high wall. Adjust FOV for hallway width — use a FOV calculator to get the right lens. Overlap coverage for smooth transitions.

Room Coverage

Dome camera on ceiling pointing down, or wall mount in corner at 45-degree angle. Ensure no desk obstruction.

Outdoor Perimeter

Cameras at building corners and fence lines. Mount high to clear vegetation. Include overlap for complete coverage.

Camera Placement Guide

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