Exceptions

For example, you do not need to apply for a dissemination permit if your picture or film only shows a private residential building or a public space. These are some of the exceptions to the requirement for a permit. If, on the other hand, your images show a more zoomed-out view, the exception does not apply, because you have captured a larger area. There may be objects in the picture that could, if disseminated, cause harm to Sweden's total defence.

Extended information on exceptions from permit requirement (in Swedish, pdf, new window)

Residential buildings

You must apply for a dissemination permit if the image shows mixed housing in a more zoomed-out view. However, you do not need to apply for a permit if you are sure that the picture only shows a residential building with associated plot of land, facilities and public roads. 

Checklist for estate agents

Sometimes, as an estate agent, you do not need to apply for a Dissemination Permit. This applies if the images solely contain:

• Residential buildings belonging to the object to be sold
• Associated facilities, such as garages and storage
• The residential plot belonging to the object to be sold

Public places

Public spaces are exempt from the requirement for a dissemination permit. In order for the exception to apply, the images may not show the surroundings. Public spaces include public roads, squares, parks and other places that are stated as public in a zoning plan. These may also include sports grounds, swimming areas, nature conservancy areas and others that municipalities state to be public spaces in their local regulations.

Public events

Public events are exempt from the requirement for a dissemination permit.  The exception applies as long as the material shows the actual area only and nothing outside it. In order for an event to be classed as public, it is required that it is arranged for the public or that the public has access to it.  Here are some examples:

• Competitions and performances in sports and athletics
• Town parties 
• Markets and fairs

What counts as a public place or public event is described in the Public Order Act (1993:1617).

Arable land

Fields and arable land are exempt from the requirement for a dissemination permit. However, if the surroundings are shown in the picture, you must apply for a permit.

Forest

Forest land is exempt from the requirement for a dissemination permit in certain circumstances. The landowner must order the material or have been the photographer. The images may not contain vehicles or human activities other than those belonging to forestry. For example, if the material contains a power line, the exception does not apply.

Construction site

Construction sites are exempt from the permit requirement if documentation takes place on behalf of the client. The material must not show the surroundings in a manner that means it is not possible to determine for sure whether it is covered by the exemption. If you are unsure, send the material to Lantmäteriet for review!

Examples of exeptions

• Residential building with associated plots of land and facilities
• Public spaces
• Areas for public events
• Arable land
• Forest ‒ material ordered by the landowner. These photos or films may not contain vehicles or human activities other than those belonging to forestry.
• Construction sites ‒ material ordered by clients
• Golf courses with associated buildings and facilities
• Quarries for extraction of gravel, rock or peat
• Landfill for waste, wood chips, snow or other excavated material
• Aerial photos taken before 1950
• Satellite images.

Please keep in mind that the exception does not apply to a more zoomed-out view where surroundings are visible. If you are unsure, you must apply for a dissemination permit from Lantmäteriet.