Photograph Laws in Denmark (2025)
What you can photograph in Denmark—public vs private spaces, publishing online, privacy expectations, and the rules for drones, explained in plain language.
Overview: Danish photography rules
Public spaces
You can photograph streets, parks, squares, beaches, and landmarks from public areas.
Private spaces
Homes, gardens, shops, cafés, and workplaces may restrict photos—permission needed.
Reasonable privacy
Never photograph people where privacy is expected (e.g., inside homes, bathrooms, changing rooms).
Taking photos in public places
Streets & landmarks
Freely shoot architecture and city scenes from public ground; respect barriers and police instructions.
Crowds & events
Outdoor public events may be photographed; organisers can set rules—check signage.
Museums & transport
Some permit non-commercial photos; others restrict/ban flash or all photography.
Photography on private property & events
Homes & gardens
Do not photograph interiors or private gardens without clear permission—even if visible from the street.
Shops & workplaces
Owners can restrict or forbid photos and ask you to stop or leave if you refuse.
Private/ticketed events
Events often set “no photo” or “limited sharing” rules—review tickets and signs.
Privacy rights & sharing photos
Vulnerable moments
Avoid photographing people in distress, medical incidents, arrests, or when dignity could be harmed.
Publishing online
Posting identifiable people online generally needs consent. Minors: get a guardian’s consent.
Consequences
Unlawful publishing/misuse can lead to takedowns, fines, and civil claims under privacy/data rules.
Drone photography in Denmark (2025)
Registration & training
Drones ≥250g must be registered with Trafikstyrelsen; pilot competency/insurance may be required.
No-fly areas
Respect airport/military zones, urban restrictions, and local rules; use official maps before flying.
Privacy from above
Don’t film private property/people without consent—even if the drone is in public airspace.
Useful resources (official)
Data Protection
Datatilsynet (English) — guidance on images and consent.
Drone rules
Criminal code
Retsinformation — Danish law (DK only).
Related on exploringdenmark
CPR & privacy
Legal help
If someone films you
Visitors’ rules
Frequently asked questions
📷 Can I photograph people in public?
Generally yes, but don’t harass or intrude. Publishing usually needs consent if a person is identifiable.
👮 Can I photograph police or accidents?
You may be asked to move/stop for safety. Publishing sensitive scenes can breach privacy—blur faces and consider consent/public interest.
🏠 Photos of private homes from the street?
Wide exterior shots are typically fine; avoid zooming into interiors/people’s activities. Don’t publish without permission.
📲 Posting street portraits on Instagram?
Best practice is to ask permission first. For minors, obtain a guardian’s consent.
🛸 What are the drone basics?
Register when required, respect no-fly areas, keep distance from people, and get consent before filming private property.
⚖️ What happens if I break the rules?
You may face takedown requests, fines, or civil claims. Serious privacy breaches can be criminal.