i would imagine that to put a camera on the outside you would have to get permission because it would require possible "damage" to the property to get the cables and camera installed. Now you can protect yourself by putting in a camera on the inside of your apartment. This way there is minimal installation needed (it can even sit on a shelf) and you can see anyone coming into your apartment.

Here is an example:

http://www.apexcctv.com/p-1463-d-link-dc...

Why in plain sight? If it is in plain sight, the landlord can remove it. If you want to, put a nanny cam in your apartment.

You need the owners consent to install a camera.

landlord shouldn't be allowed in without advance notice and only when you are there - what does your lease say?

I'm kinda wondering the privacy of my apartment so I was wondering should I put a security camera up in plain sight to keep the land lord from shopping cause by now they have already went through my things I mean if I knew a camera was running I would avoid snooping at a all legal cost is that not correct?