Shooting in public? Get a permit & pay $100, or else!!!

Taking photographs in a public place without paying for a permit? Well, if you're in the City of Laguna Beach, in California, you may want to think very seriously before you do, or face a court appearance and a fine. 

In Australia, we often lament how ridiculous the situation is getting here, and Ken Duncan is certainly one of the most vocal and strenuous voices when it comes to the restrictions that exist when shooting in public places in Australia. And shooting in public is also a topic that we have previously covered in-depth in the magazine. 

But it looks like we're not alone. And the situaiton in Laguna Beach seems even more outrageous than it does here. As reported on DIY Photography recently, if you want to take non-commerical photos there, that's no problem. Go right ahead! But only after you apply fpr a permit three days in advance, and shell out US$100 for the priviledge. Yes, that's right, 100 smackers just to take personal images for private use. Has the world gone bonkers? Quite possibly. 

A friend of the photogapher, Thien Dinh, shared the story of how a citation to appear in court was issued by a ranger as a permit had not been sought. While Dinh's friend was doing an engagement shoot, it would have been classed as non-commerical, and he would have been required to pay the $100 permit fee. As per the photo policies on the website:
Non-commercial still photo permits are for family portraits and engagement/wedding type photo shoots only. 

If you do happen to find yourself keen to shoot in the City of Laguna Beach, we're supplying the link here for your convenience so that you you can be sure that you're buying the right permit for the photography you want to do. And below is a copy of the photo polices.