Is it Legal to Film Police in Tampa, Florida?

Can you legally record the police in Tampa? Yes—but a new Florida law that went into effect on January 1, 2025, now makes it easier to get arrested for doing so. If you film law enforcement or emergency responders and don’t follow the new rules, you could face criminal charges—even if you’re standing on public property.

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we defend people across Tampa and Hillsborough County who are charged with crimes like resisting arrest, obstruction, and now violations of Florida Statute 843.31. If you’ve been arrested for filming or standing too close to police, we can help.

What the New Law Says

Under Section 843.31, Florida Statutes, it’s now a second-degree misdemeanor to stay within 25 feet of a police officer, firefighter, or EMT after being told to back away. If you’re recording and don’t move after a verbal warning, and police say you intended to interfere, threaten, or harass, you could be arrested.

Penalties include up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.

This law applies across Florida—including Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, and throughout Hillsborough County.

Can You Still Record Police Officers in Tampa?

Yes, you can still legally film police in public places. That right is protected by the First Amendment. But the new law gives officers more power to control how close you can get. If you’re filming and they tell you to step back—and you don’t—you’re at risk of being charged under this statute.

How to Safely Record Police Without Getting Arrested

If you want to record an arrest, traffic stop, or emergency response, follow these safety tips:

• Stay at least 25 feet away – If an officer tells you to back up, do it. Don’t argue.
• Use your phone’s zoom – You can still record from a distance.
• Keep calm and don’t talk to the officers – Stay quiet and focus on filming.
• Don’t block emergency workers or vehicles – Move out of the way immediately.
• Stay on public property – Sidewalks and parking lots are usually safe zones.
• Film the warning if possible – If you’re told to back up, record that moment. It may help your defense later.

Arrested for Filming Police in Hillsborough County? Call a Criminal Defense Lawyer Now

Many arrests under this new law are based on the officer’s opinion. You may not have intended to interfere—but police can still say you did. That’s why you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows how to challenge vague claims and protect your rights.

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we’ve spent over 25 years defending people charged with serious crimes in Tampa and Hillsborough County. We understand how these cases work—and how to fight them. Whether you were arrested at a protest, during a traffic stop, or while filming a family member’s arrest, we are ready to step in and help.

Contact Us Today

If you’ve been charged under Florida Statute 843.31 or any other criminal offense, don’t wait. The sooner you call, the more we can do.

Call 813-592-8981 now for a free and confidential consultation with Rocky Brancato, Tampa criminal defense attorney. We serve clients in Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, and across Hillsborough County.

Let us protect your freedom—so you can protect your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Filming Police in Tampa, Florida

• Is it legal to record police officers in Tampa, Florida? Yes, generally you still have the First Amendment right to legally film police officers in public places in Tampa and Florida. However, a new Florida law (Florida Statute 843.31) that went into effect on January 1, 2025, has introduced restrictions on how close you can get while recording.
• What does the new Florida law (Section 843.31) say about filming police? Under the new law, it is a second-degree misdemeanor to remain within 25 feet of a police officer, firefighter, or EMT after being verbally instructed to move away. If you are recording and fail to move back after a warning, and the police believe you intended to interfere, threaten, or harass them, you can be arrested.
• What are the penalties for violating Florida Statute 843.31? The penalties for violating this law include up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.
• Does this law apply everywhere in the Tampa Bay area? Yes, Florida Statute 843.31 applies across the entire state of Florida, including Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, and all of Hillsborough County.
• Can I still record police even with this new law? Yes, your right to record police in public is still protected. However, you must comply with an officer’s verbal instruction to move back at least 25 feet. Failure to do so can lead to arrest under the new statute.
• How can I safely record police in Tampa without getting arrested under this new law? To record safely:
  • Stay at least 25 feet away from officers and emergency responders. If asked to move back, do so immediately and without argument.
  • Utilize your phone’s zoom feature to record from a safe distance.
  • Remain calm and avoid engaging in conversation with the officers. Focus on recording.
  • Ensure you are not blocking emergency workers or their vehicles; move out of their way promptly.
  • Stay on public property like sidewalks and parking lots.
  • Try to record the officer’s warning if they instruct you to move back. This could be helpful for your defense if arrested.
• What should I do if I am arrested for filming police in Hillsborough County? If you are arrested for violating Florida Statute 843.31 or any other related charge, it is crucial to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. An attorney can help protect your rights and challenge claims that you intended to interfere, threaten, or harass law enforcement
• Why do I need a lawyer if I’m arrested for filming police? Arrests under this new law can often be based on an officer’s interpretation of your intent. A skilled criminal defense lawyer understands how these cases are handled and can challenge vague accusations to protect your rights and your future.
• Who should I contact if I’ve been arrested for filming police in Tampa or Hillsborough County? If you have been charged under Florida Statute 843.31, you can contact The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. for a free and confidential consultation. You can reach them at 813-592-8981. They serve clients in Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, and throughout Hillsborough County.