From April 17 you will not take a photo. Threatens arrest and loss of equipment

Although the ban on photographing specific objects has functioned in Polish law since the entry into force of the Act on the defense of the homeland in 2022, its enforcement has been difficult. There was a lack of a prohibition sign and detailed procedures. This is changing – from April 17, 2025, the new regulation of the Ministry of National Defense will apply.

New recipes

The new regulations specify the principles of placing characters, the way their appearance, as well as the procedures for obtaining photography permits. The prohibition signs must be clearly visible – e.g. on a fence or building facade. The ban applies to both photography and filming and other types of registration:

• facilities important for the security or defense of the country,

• objects subordinate to the Ministry of National Defense,

• critical infrastructure,

• and people and property located in these facilities.

Photographing permit

How to get a permit?

People who want to take photos of such objects must submit an application – electronic with a qualified or paper signature. The document must contain personal data, justification and information on the time and place of the planned registration. The application is considered within 14 days.

The permit contains the photographer’s details, location, date and data of the accompanying person from the authorized authority. In special cases, the obligation to obtain a permit does not apply – e.g. in the activities of services, documentary work of facilities managers or media relationships approved by the competent authorities.

What does the prohibition sign look like?

A plaque measuring 60×60 cm, with red elements and a black inscription “Prohibition of photography”. It also contains crossed out icons of the camera, camera and telephone. In addition, the plaque contains translations of the inscription on languages: English, German, Russian and Arabic.

What penalties threaten for violating the ban?

Pursuant to art. 683a of the Act, who photographs the object marked with a ban without permission, shall be punishable by arrest or a fine. It is also possible to decide on the forfeiture of equipment, even if he does not belong to the perpetrator.

The new regulations introduce clarity and uniformity in the enforcement of the ban. For photographers and enthusiasts of taking photos, this means the need to exercise greater caution and comply with the rules.