I would like to know the stance of Local Guide regarding to Freedom of panorama. As a Sri Lankan, I know my country has some limitations. I copy the following summary from Wikimedia Commons:
Sri Lankan copyright law limits reproducing copyrighted artworks and buildings placed permanently at public places or visible from there without the rights holder’s consent to film and TV broadcasts only.
Sri Lankan copyright law was revised 2001-2003. The current law is the Code of Intellectual Property Act 36 of 2003, which in “Chapter I: Copyright” introduced U.S.-style “fair use” and dropped any direct reference to anything resembling “freedom of panorama” at all.
I think we need to consider this fact seriously since it connect with Sri Lankan copyright law. As per the copyright law, photographing new buildings and using them without proper permission could be considered as violation. What do you think? Do we have any legal advisers?
@AntanO I could not find anything related to publishing photos in the act. Normally Google will not allow users to publish photos or videos of certain countries if there are restrictions by law. They seriously think about it. For example India and Russia is not allowing Streetview.
Could you have a look at Chapter 1? It says The permission under subsection (1) of this section shall not be extended to the reproduction of a work of architecture in the form of a building or other constructions.
Hi @AntanO a lot of countries don’t have Freedom of Panorama or similar within their laws. Some countries allow it (e.g. Australia, USA, England) and some do not. In many countries Freedom of Panorama or (in your case) the opposite is overridden by who owns the copyright of the image once it is made.
Do you have a particular concern? I would recommend engaging a lawyer in your country to understand any implications for you.
Could you have a look at Chapter 1? It says The permission under subsection (1) of this section shall not be extended to the reproduction of a work of architecture in the form of a building or other constructions.
@AntanO , this means that you cannot copy an architectural work and rebuild the building that was designed by another architect. It does not mean you cannot take a photo of it. In that case, no-one could take any photo in entire cities!
A number of our Local Guides are very well versed on the rights and limitations of photography in their home countries. However I would advise that if you are worried about any limitations, it is best to consult first with a local lawyer to make sure you have the most accurate information.
We do not provide any guidance beyond encouraging people to follow Google Maps photo and video policies which always advise following local laws.
Just checking in if there was any progress on this? I’m interested in clearing this confusion once and for all. Good images are being deleted on Wikipedia/Commons because of the lack of clarity on FOP in SL.