Quick Takeaways

• Privacy Zones (masks) block specific regions from recording/viewing.
• Detection Zones restrict motion/AI analysis to relevant areas.
• Proper zoning reduces false alerts from streets, trees, and reflections.
• Use separate zones for people, vehicles, and packages where supported.

What Zones Do

Privacy Zones

• Solid masks that prevent capture/display of defined areas.

Detection Zones

• Regions where motion/smart detections are allowed to trigger events.

How to change Privacy and Detection Zone Settings

Open the UniFi Protect web app.
Go to Cameras → select the camera.
Click Settings → Privacy & Motion Zones (name varies by model).
You’ll see two options:
Privacy Zones
Click “+ Add Privacy Zone.”Draw a rectangle over the area to mask (e.g. neighbor’s window).Adjust/resize as needed.
Detection Zones
Click “+ Add Detection Zone.”
Draw a polygon around the area where you want motion/smart detections.
Name the zone (e.g. Driveway, Doorstep).
Save.
Save / Apply changes.

Best‑Practice Setup

• Exclude public roads/sidewalks to cut constant motion.
• Include approach paths, doors, and driveways.
• Separate zones by intent (e.g., “Doorstep” for packages, “Walkway” for people).

Tuning Tips

• Avoid tiny slivers—use larger, simpler polygons for stability.
• Re‑check at night; headlights and IR reflections behave differently.
• Combine zones with sensitivity/object‑size thresholds if available.

Cheat Sheet

• Doorway: Small zone around steps/mat; exclude street/sidewalk.
• Driveway: Zone curb to garage; exclude passing traffic.
• Backyard: Zone near gates/patio; exclude trees and foliage.

Final Tips

Use masks for neighbor windows and private areas. Name zones clearly (“Driveway People,” “Porch Packages”) for fast filtering. Update zones after landscaping or seasonal changes.

More Settings: See the Ultimate Guide to UniFi Protect Video Settings

Related Posts: Read Recording Modes, Audio Settings, and Aspect Ratio & Cropping.