Since 17 April 2025, Poland has been prohibited from photographing certain objects which are peculiarly crucial for the safety and defence of the state. These fresh rules supply for fines, equipment confiscation, and even detention for breaking them. All marked facilities will bear a peculiar prohibition mark to avoid misunderstandings and non-accidental violations.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the fresh regulation aims to defend crucial infrastructure facilities specified as military facilities, airports and critical infrastructure. These facilities have been considered peculiarly susceptible to terrorist threats and attacks and so their shooting straight threatens the safety of the State.
The ban on shooting includes primarily military facilities specified as military bases, military airports and logistics facilities. In addition, it besides covers critical infrastructure facilities specified as power plants, water filters and pump stations. These facilities are highly crucial for the functioning of the state and the safety of its citizens.
To legally photograph, you request approval from the competent authorities. specified authorisation shall be issued by the Ministry of Defence or another competent authorities. In case of violation of the shooting ban, law enforcement authorities may intervene immediately after the infringement has been found.
There is no request to submit an application erstwhile photos are taken by journalists or photojournalists who execute their work as part of their professional tasks. However, journalists and photojournalists besides gotta comply with regulations and rules on shooting military facilities and critical infrastructure.
New markings will be visible on objects that are prohibited from shooting. The plan of the mark is set out in the Annex to the Regulation. This sign aims to inform people about the prohibition of shooting and preventing misunderstandings.
According to data from the Ministry of Defence, since 17 April 2025, more than 500 military facilities and critical infrastructure were banned from shooting. In addition, more than 1,000 people have been informed of fresh shooting regulations and rules.
Prohibition of photography is an crucial measurement to defend the safety of the state and citizens. Therefore, everyone should respect the fresh rules and principles to avoid misunderstandings and criminal consequences.
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New photography ban in Poland: what you should know