# Police Access to Hotel Surveillance Raises Privacy Concerns for Travelers
Police in Rialto, California accessed camera feeds from a Days Inn for hundreds of hours without warrants, monitoring guests in areas including the pool deck. The department gained access to the hotel's private surveillance system as part of a broader network connecting local law enforcement to business cameras across the city.
This discovery highlights a growing vulnerability for travelers choosing budget accommodations. Days Inn properties, part of the Wyndham Hotels portfolio, operate independently at franchise locations, meaning security protocols vary widely. The Rialto Police Department's access to poolside cameras crosses into highly sensitive territory, as guests rightfully expect privacy in swimwear in designated recreational areas.
The incident reflects larger surveillance trends affecting the hospitality industry. Hotels increasingly install security cameras in common areas for safety and loss prevention, but few guests understand who accesses those feeds or how long footage remains available. Budget chains like Days Inn often rely on basic camera systems without robust encryption or access controls that luxury operators like Hyatt or Four Seasons implement.
Travelers should now consider several protections. Request information about camera locations and data retention policies before booking. Major chains including Marriott and IHG have published transparency reports detailing law enforcement requests. Budget travelers specifically should avoid Days Inn properties in jurisdictions with questionable surveillance practices, or choose hotels with explicit privacy policies.
The Rialto case demonstrates that law enforcement can access hotel surveillance without guest knowledge or consent. Police departments in some municipalities have quietly integrated private business cameras into surveillance networks without warrants or oversight. This practice particularly affects budget properties, which often lack the legal resources to challenge access requests.
For travelers concerned about privacy, boutique hotels and independent properties typically maintain stricter access controls. When booking any accommodation, research local police practices and request written confirmation that surveillance access requires warrants. The hospitality industry faces mounting pressure to balance security with