New York City
When NYC requires a film/photo permit, when handheld shooting is exempt, and the insurance requirement that catches people out.
Guidance, not legal advice
Permit
Conditional
Issuer: Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment (MOME)
Cost: Permits are free, but a permit triggers a $1,000,000 general liability insurance requirement
Processing: Apply at least 2 business days in advance
Handheld photography/video using a tripod-free setup, and that does not assert exclusive use of city property, generally does NOT need a permit. You need one once you use equipment that asserts exclusive use (tripods, lighting, generators) or stage on streets/sidewalks. The insurance requirement, not the permit fee, is the real cost.
Drone / airspace
Effectively banned citywide for takeoff/landing without NYPD authorization
NYC Admin Code restricts drone takeoff/landing to approved sites. For airspace and Part 107, see Drone Authority.
Street / public space
Yes: photographing people and property visible from public space is legal in the US
Subway photography is permitted for personal use; flash, tripods, and stands are restricted on MTA property.
Practical notes
- Carry the MOME 'handheld exemption' framing in your head: it is the line between needing a permit and not.
- Private property (malls, plazas, building lobbies) sets its own rules regardless of city law.
Sources
Keep shooting
Knowing the rules is half the job. The craft side: