17 Places Around the World Where Selfies are Illegal or Banned

Taking selfies has become a common practice for many people, especially when travelling to different parts of the world. However, it’s important to be aware that some countries or areas have strict laws regarding photography and taking selfies. While it may seem harmless, it can actually lead to serious consequences such as fines, imprisonment, or deportation.

It’s also worth noting that the term “selfie” is often associated with risqué photos, particularly nude selfies, which are illegal in most countries if taken in public places. This is an important consideration when taking photos of oneself or others in any context.

To avoid running afoul of the law, it’s essential to research the rules and regulations of the country or area you plan to visit before taking any photos.

In some countries, taking selfies with sensitive areas or people, such as military installations, government buildings, or religious sites, is strictly prohibited. Violating these laws can result in serious legal consequences. There are a lot of odd and weird customs around the world, and it’s important to due your homework before you travel.

Even in the United States, certain areas prohibit taking selfies, such as polling places during elections or within certain government buildings. It’s important to respect these rules to avoid any legal issues.

Places Around the World Where Selfies are Completely Illegal

Tourists are being warned that they could get into serious trouble after snapping a picture of themselves at these destinations where selfies are banned.

Photography experts at ParrotPrint.com have named the seven locations across the globe where it is strictly forbidden and even punishable for visitors to take selfies.

Ultimately, while taking selfies can be a fun and exciting way to document your travels, it’s essential to be aware of the legal ramifications and cultural sensitivities surrounding photography in different parts of the world. By doing so, you can avoid any unnecessary legal troubles and enjoy your travels with peace of mind.

Taking an innocent selfie on holiday could turn into a nightmare situation for visitors – such as having to pay a €3000 fine in Spain.

Some of the most popular tourist destinations in the world have banned selfies – but many have introduced the law to protect visitors.

New York and California both have legislation in place to stop selfies being taken with tigers and bears, surrounding fears of people getting dangerously close to these animals.

The railway network across Japan has banned the use of selfie sticks for safety reasons as the overhead wiring could cause electrocution.

The Tower of London and Garoupe beach in France are also popular with holidaymakers, but have enforced strict bans on selfies.

Matt Dahan from ParrotPrint.com said: “It’s now become second nature to take a selfie wherever we are to send to our friends and family, share on social media, or just keep as a memory for ourselves.

“It’s difficult to imagine that some tourist hotspots around the world have actually banned anyone from taking a selfie.

“Many destinations have forbidden visitors from snapping a picture of themselves for safety reasons – such as getting too close to dangerous animals in America or fears of electrocution in Japan.

“Others have enforced the ban as pictures could be used as a security threat – like in the Tower of London; whilst Saudi Arabia has forbidden selfies during the pilgrimage to Mecca for religious purposes.

“A popular beach in southern France wants everyone to embrace their time abroad and not focus on bragging on social media by sharing selfies – that’s why during the busy season selfies are not allowed.

“We’ve named seven spots across the globe where taking a selfie is banned – and tourists should stay aware of certain laws about photography when holidaying.”

Related Article You Will Enjoy: 50+ Weird Food and Drinks from Around the World

7 Locations Selfies are Illegal

The seven destinations where selfies are illegal, as researched by ParrotPrint.com:

New York

Although it’s one of the biggest tourist hotspots in the world, the state has made it illegal to take a selfie with any of the big cats who are homed at zoos, carnivals and circuses. This ban was introduced to protect residents and tourists, after a social media trend saw a rise in ‘tiger selfies’.

Tower of London

The precious crown jewels are kept under high security at the Jewel House in the Tower of London, with over 100 CCTV cameras and guards round the clock watching out for people trying to sneak a selfie. Inside the Jewel House taking photos or videos with these royal gems is strictly forbidden as it’s seen as a security risk.

Garoupe beach in France

Garoupe beach in southern France banned holiday-makers from taking selfies during the busy season in the middle of summer. This law was introduced to stop people from bragging about their holiday – with the beach authorities wanting Garoupe to be a haven to enjoy in the moment, rather than showing off on social media.

Saudi Arabia

The government has introduced a ban for those on the pilgrimage to Mecca after selfies being taken on the holy journey have been seen as disrespectful. Reports state that taking these selfies is a tourist attraction taking away from the tranquillity required for these acts of worship.

Running of the Bulls in Spain

Selfies are banned during the annual Running of the Bulls event held in Pamplona, Spain to stop visitors putting their lives in danger at the controversial occasion. Those trying to take a selfie with the bulls could be subject to hefty fines of €3000.

The Japan Railway

Across the West Japan Railway Company, selfies taken with a selfie stick have been banned. The law was introduced after the company issued a warning to travelers that the overhead wiring may cause electrocution, even if the selfie stick doesn’t touch the wires.

Lake Tahoe in California

Similar to New York, the state of California in United States has banned selfies being taken in the Lake Tahoe region. This law was introduced amid fears of safety for visitors given the high percentage of wild bears in the area and worries that people were getting dangerously close to the animals.

10 Additional Locations Where Selfies are Banned or Illegal

While the laws and regulations surrounding photography vary from country to country, here are some examples of locations around the world where taking selfies may be prohibited or restricted:

The Palace of Versailles in France

Visitors are not allowed to take selfies inside the palace or in the gardens due to concerns about the preservation of the artwork and the safety of the visitors.

The Sistine Chapel in Vatican City

Taking photos or selfies is strictly prohibited inside the chapel due to concerns about the preservation of the artwork and the sanctity of the space.

The Taj Mahal in India

Visitors are allowed to take selfies outside the main mausoleum but not inside it. Additionally, the use of selfie sticks is not permitted at the site.

The Mausoleum of Mohammed V in Morocco

Photography is not allowed inside the mausoleum due to its religious significance.

The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea

Photography is restricted and controlled in this heavily militarized zone, and visitors must follow strict rules and regulations.

The Grand Mosque in Saudi Arabia

Visitors are not allowed to take selfies inside the mosque, and they must adhere to strict dress codes and other rules and regulations.

The Presidential Palace in Turkmenistan

Photography is prohibited in and around the palace, and visitors must obtain special permission to enter the building.

The Anne Frank House in the Netherlands

Taking photos or selfies is not allowed inside the museum due to its somber and serious nature.

The Acropolis in Greece

Visitors are allowed to take photos and selfies outside the ancient site but not inside it, and the use of selfie sticks is prohibited.

The Blue Mosque in Turkey

Visitors are allowed to take photos and selfies outside the mosque but not inside it, and they must follow strict dress codes and other rules and regulations.

Selfie Etiquette

When taking a selfie in public, it’s important to be mindful of those around you and to exercise common courtesy. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Be aware of your surroundings: Look around you and make sure you’re not blocking anyone’s path or view.
• Respect others’ privacy: If you’re taking a selfie in a crowded area, be mindful of those around you and avoid capturing strangers in your photos without their permission.
• Be considerate of others’ feelings: Some people may feel uncomfortable or annoyed when someone is taking selfies in public, so be respectful of their feelings.
• Use common sense: Don’t take selfies in dangerous or prohibited areas, and don’t put yourself or others at risk for the sake of a photo.
• Be efficient: Take your selfie quickly and move on to avoid causing delays or inconveniencing others.

By following these guidelines, you can take selfies in public without disrupting others or causing any issues. Remember that common courtesy goes a long way in making everyone’s experience more enjoyable.

If you are going to travel and plan to take selfies (where you know it’s totally legal) here is the best selfie stick for travel.

For more information about specific laws and customs about photography abroad, please visit https://parrotprint.com/.

If you liked it, please share it. Thank you!