Photo Release Policy
Shrewsbury Recreation Department
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to inform participants, visitors, and staff about the use of photographs and videos taken at events, programs, and facilities managed by the Shrewsbury Recreation Department. By participating in or attending activities or entering park premises, individuals may be photographed or recorded for promotional purposes.
Scope
This policy applies to all individuals (including minors) participating in any program, event, or activity organized or sponsored by the Shrewsbury Recreation Department, as well as visitors to any park or recreation facility.
Policy Statement
- Consent for Photography and Videography
By participating in or attending any Shrewsbury Recreation Department event, program, or activity, or by entering any parks and recreation facility, participants, visitors, and their legal guardians (in the case of minors) grant permission to the Shrewsbury Recreation Department to photograph or record them. These images and videos may be used for promotional materials including, but not limited to:
- Print materials (e.g., brochures, flyers)
- Digital media (e.g., websites, social media platforms)
- Public relations purposes (e.g., press releases)
- Newsletters and other communications
- Use of Photographs and Videos
The Shrewsbury Recreation Department reserves the right to use any photograph or video taken at its events or facilities without the expressed written permission of those included in the photograph or video. No compensation will be provided to individuals whose images or recordings are used. All images and videos taken are the property of the Shrewsbury Recreation Department.
- Opt-Out Procedure
If an individual does not wish to have their image or the image of their minor child(ren) used for promotional purposes, they must notify the Recreation Department in writing and include a recent photo of the person to be excluded. This request must be submitted via email or in person before participation in any event or program, or prior to entering any facility where photos or videos may be taken. For further matters regarding the withdrawal of consent, please refer to number 6 within this policy. The department will make reasonable efforts to accommodate such requests but cannot guarantee the exclusion of individuals from all photography or video during public events.
- Exclusions
- Photos or videos taken by private individuals for personal use at public events are not governed by this policy.
- The policy does not apply to photos taken for law enforcement, safety, or security purposes.
- Minors
For participants under the age of 18, it is assumed that the parent or guardian provides consent to the use of their child's image unless an opt-out request is submitted.
- Withdrawal of Consent
Participants who wish to withdraw their consent after participating in an event or program must submit a written request and recent photo to the Recreation Department. However, the department may not be able to remove or retract images or videos already published.
Review and Amendment
This policy is subject to periodic review and may be amended as necessary by the Shrewsbury Recreation Department.
Contact Information
For inquiries or to submit opt-out requests, please contact:
Shrewsbury Recreation Department
Town Hall, Second Floor
100 Maple Avenue
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Email: parkrec@shrewsburyma.gov
Phone: 508-841-8503
This policy helps the Recreation Department operate transparently and ensures the respectful use of photos and videos for promotional purposes.