Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority Serving Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and

Philadelphia Counties

Photography & Filming Guidelines

As one of the oldest and largest multi-modal transit systems in the world, the SEPTA system is graced with beautiful,
historic and unique architecture and a wide variety of vehicles that attract the interest of visitors from the four corners
of the globe - many of whom capture their visits in photographs or in sketch books.

SEPTA welcomes photographers and artists. In return, we simply request they use common sense and courtesy to
others in pursuit of their pictures.

Safety
The safety of our customers and employees is paramount throughout the entire SEPTA system. While photography is
permitted in clearly defined public areas of the SEPTA system, it obviously cannot be permitted in any manner that
would interfere with the safe movement of people or operation of vehicles.

For example, camera lights or flash bulbs should never be aimed in the direction of an oncoming vehicle or used within
a moving vehicle. Camera or artist's tripods and other equipment should not be placed in any location that might
interfere with the free and safe movement of people or vehicles.

Photography is obviously prohibited in any area of the SEPTA system that is not accessible to the general public.

While the law permits photography of private citizens in public places, common courtesy would have photographers
request permission of people before taking their pictures, especially close-ups.

Security
Worldwide terrorist attacks against public transportation facilities in recent years has required a tightening of security
procedures at all SEPTA facilities. Security experts consider photographing and sketching public transportation
facilities as possible pre-indicators of terrorist activity.

While this unfortunate reality has not resulted in a prohibition of photography, SEPTA Transit Police and other law
enforcement are under orders to question anyone taking photographs or sketching transit facilities.

Obviously, these activities are almost always legitimate and that is the end of the issue. However, anyone conducting
these activities in unauthorized areas of SEPTA property may be charged and detained for further investigation.

Commercial and Media Photography

Commercial photographers are required to receive written permission, provide liability insurance coverage and meet
other policy requirements. All requests must be sent via email to Sylvana Hoyos. Questions and additional information
may be discussed with Sylvana Hoyos by telephone at (215) 580-8367.

Media photography requests must be coordinated through the Media Relations Department by calling (215) 580-7842.

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 • (215) 580-7800 Phone
• (215) 580-7853 TDD/TTY

1234 Market Street | Philadelphia PA 19107

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