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Navigating Copyright in Maps

Clearing Maps for TV & Film Productions

Maps are a perennial plot device in Film and TV. Whether it’s an A1-sized map pinned to a police incident room wall, a tracking app following a kidnapped character, or a Satnav with key coordinates saved, you can count on maps appearing in almost every production.

But while they may seem like simple backdrops or props, maps are legally complex. They involve public data, cartographic copyright, software permissions, and satellite imagery rights—each with its own clearance requirements.

This guide breaks down the different layers of a map and what you need to consider when arranging permissions

What are the layers within a map? And which of them are protected?

1. Raw Geographic Data

The factual information about locations—things like the placement of roads, buildings, rivers, and coast lines. Factual data itself isn’t copyrightable. However, if this data is collected and arranged into a database, it may be protected by database rights.

2. Cartography

That's the process of selecting, organizing, and presenting the data into a coherent, usable map. This includes decisions about which details to include, how to layer information, and the visual design elements (like color schemes, symbols, and typography). Although the underlying facts aren’t copyrightable, the creative choices in presentation are. This means the map as a whole—its layout, style, and design—is protected by copyright.

3. Aerial/Satellite Imagery

High-resolution images taken from satellites or aircraft that might be overlaid on or integrated with the cartographic map. These images are typically considered creative works because of the choices made in capturing and processing them (like framing, resolution, and colour corrections). They are protected by copyright and are usually licensed from specialised providers.

4. Software and User Interface (UI)

The digital software that powers the satnav device, including: The code for routing algorithms. The interactive interface that displays the map and responds to user inputs. Graphical elements such as icons and buttons.
This software is protected by copyright as a literary work. The UI design, graphics, and code are all original works that the device manufacturer or software provider owns.

5. Additional advertising

Many maps incorporate local business listings, landmarks, and points of interest, often compiled by chambers of commerce or government agencies. These maps may include branded elements, logos, or advertisements, all of which require separate clearance before use in a production.

Ensuring that every business name, logo, or ad is properly cleared can be a time-consuming process. In many cases, it’s easier—and more practical—to use a different map or create your own with fictional businesses and advertisements tailored to your production’s needs.

Copyright in each Map Layer

Now that you know the different layers within a map, let’s look at how to determine if you need permission and how to get it.

Historical Maps

Copyright typically expires 70 years after the death of the creator. Many historical maps were commissioned by governments or institutions, meaning copyright is often tied to the publication date rather than an individual. If a modern company has digitised or restored an old map, that new version may be copyrighted—so always check the source.

Crown Copyright

Many UK maps come from government bodies (like Ordinance Survey or the UK Hydrographic Office). These are protected under Crown Copyright for 50 years from the date of publication. Some are freely available under the Open Government License.

US Government

In the US, maps created by government agencies (e.g., USGS, NOAA, NASA) are usually placed in the public domain so can be used commercially. However they will sometime ask for a credit and have conditions on use e.g., NASA specifies any commercial use must not "convey NASA’s endorsement of commercial goods or services")

Modern Maps

There are many commercial mapping companies that happily sign production releases for their contemporary maps. (e.g., Get Mapping, Vector Maps Net) Although they will usually charge a fee for the digital files.

Mapping Tools & Services

Most digital mapping services—like Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Garmin—are commercial products with strict copyright protections. Here’s what to watch out for:

Google Maps & Apple Maps & Garmin – Commercial products that require a license for film and TV use.

OpenStreetMap – Open-source, but still requires proper attribution and compliance with its open data license

Some mapping permissions may be covered in prop placement agreements—but check the fine print. Many providers require maps to be displayed accurately, meaning you can’t alter data (which could lead to issues with sensitive locations).

If in doubt, consider creating an original map or using public domain sources.

Context - What is your map saying?

Maps are the original infographic - they are a visual way to quickly and clearly communicate complex and important information about place, ownership, boundaries. With digital mapping services they often layer in very specific and detailed personal data details - so you need to be careful you're not sharing potentially sensitive personal data

Are you identifying a real location/address?
Public vs private addresses
Finding a “cleared co-ordinate”
Empty lots or coordinates in the ocean

Good, Fast, Cheap

Need to find a solution thats filming tomorrow? A generic iStock without any location labels will usually be a save option. The assets are clear, most production will have a subscription. There's some good options saved onto this light box here

Summary

Maps are more than just set dressing—they have multiple layers of copyright protection that can create legal headaches if used incorrectly. Always check who owns the map, whether it’s in the public domain, and if a license is required before including it in your production.

If you need a cleared map, consider creating a custom version or using public domain resources to avoid potential legal issues.

Not all maps are free to use—cartography, satellite images, and software are often copyrighted.
Historical maps may be public domain, but check for modern digitization rights.
Google Maps, Apple Maps, and similar services have strict rules—screenshots and modified versions may still be protected.
OpenStreetMap is a flexible option, but still requires attribution.
When in doubt, get permission or create your own map

These links and suggestion may change over time. Always recheck the copyright status with your lawyer or clearance person. This page was last updated in Feb 2025

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