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) 727-7159 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?

Yes. You generally have a First Amendment right to film police officers performing their duties in public places in Tampa and throughout Florida. However, a new Florida law (Florida Statute § 843.31) that took effect on January 1, 2025, restricts how close you can be while recording.

What Does Florida Statute 843.31 Say About Filming Police?

Under Section 843.31, it is a second-degree misdemeanor to stay within 25 feet of a police officer, firefighter, or EMT after being told to move away. If you continue recording without moving back and the officer believes you intended to interfere, threaten, or harass, you can be arrested.

What Are the Penalties for Violating Florida’s Filming Law?

Violating Florida Statute 843.31 is punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. A conviction also creates a criminal record that may affect future employment or licensing opportunities.

Does This Law Apply Throughout the Tampa Bay Area?

Yes. Florida Statute 843.31 applies statewide—including Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, and all of Hillsborough County. Local police departments must follow the same 25-foot rule under this law.

Can I Still Record Police in Public?

Yes. Your right to record law enforcement in public remains protected, but you must comply with any verbal instruction to move at least 25 feet away. Ignoring that warning could result in arrest under Section 843.31.

How Can I Safely Record Police Without Getting Arrested?

To safely record police encounters in Tampa:

• Keep at least 25 feet away from officers and emergency workers.
• Move back immediately if asked—do not argue or resist.
• Use your phone’s zoom to capture video from a distance.
• Stay calm and silent while filming; avoid direct engagement.
• Do not block emergency vehicles or personnel.
• Stay on public property such as sidewalks or parking lots.
• If possible, record the officer’s verbal warning to move back. This could support your defense if you are arrested.

What Should I Do If I’m Arrested for Filming Police in Tampa?

If you are arrested for violating Florida Statute 843.31, contact an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney immediately. Your lawyer can investigate whether the officer’s instruction was lawful and whether your actions actually interfered with their duties.

Why Do I Need a Lawyer If I’m Charged Under Section 843.31?

Arrests under this law often depend on an officer’s subjective interpretation of your intent. A knowledgeable attorney can challenge vague allegations, argue that your recording was constitutionally protected, and work to have the charges dismissed or reduced.

Who Should I Contact If I’m Arrested for Filming Police in Hillsborough County?

If you’ve been charged under Florida Statute 843.31, contact The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. for a free and confidential consultation.
Attorney Rocky Brancato represents clients throughout Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, and Hillsborough County.
Call (813) 727-7159 today to protect your rights and your future.