Italian tripod permit

Hi Tom, I was in Rome in Sept '09 & we used a tripod mainly at night in areas such as Piazza Navona to get night shots. We didn't have any problems but granted it was at night and the tripod was obviously not as visible as it would have been during the day.

Given the 10 or 12 tripod vendors we saw outside il Colosseo in October, I can't imagine a restriction! I have a professional photographger colleague who took many pictures using his tripod last summer.

The only tripod permit I have seen is for the inside a few buildings, art galleries, etc.. Those buildings will have a sign indicating the need for a permit. Never have seen an outdoor restriction. A restriction on cameras in general is common. Even if cameras are permit often no flash is permitted.

Tom, I've never encountered any problems in using a Tripod in outside locations, either at night or during the day. There are restrictions of course in using these inside in Churches, Museums, etc. I packed a full-size Tripod along on my trip to Europe in mid-2010, and used it in Italy, Greece, Switzerland, France and Germany. I don't always take it, but was doing a Photography Workshop in Tuscany this year so it was essential. I was never approached by any Security or Police at any time. Could you elaborate on where you heard about this restriction? Given the bureaucratic nature of getting permits in Italy, I'd probably leave the Tripod at home rather than apply for a "Tripod Permit". Cheers!

I'm concerned about this same issue for my upcoming trip in May. What about monopods - outside as well as inside buildings. The HDR photography I shoot takes three shots, and a stable camera is essential.

As far as I know monopods are in the same catagory as tripods. They are considered a tripping hazard. You might be able to use them more easily outside as they are easier to collapse and move on but you may still be told to put it away.
I know that in the vatican museums you are required to check your tripod at the baggage check. They may make you check a monopod too as they make you check umbrellas and walking sticks. They will not allow you to use a monopod inside St. Peter's at all. Donna

Maybe a little vino to steady my hand . . .

There is actually a law restricting the use of tripods. They are considered a tripping hazard not only inside museums but also outside. If seen, the police will insist you put it away or ask for your permit. You can also be fined but usually it's just a warning not to use it. You can certainly give it a try without a permit but just be careful when in very crowded areas. Donna

It sure would be nice to know where to acquire this permit. I'm going to Venice for a photography workshop in May and plan to use a tripod often.

Got back from our trip last weekend and I wanted to let you all know that I took my full-sized tripod and never had trouble. I used it at night and tried to stay out of everyone's way but did use it in crowded spots like the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona. I even used it in 2 smaller churches and maybe could have used it more but I only retrieved it from the hotel for night walks (too heavy to lug around all day.) After previously posting I contact the American embassy who referred me to the Italian embassy/consulate though I never followed up regarding a permit. I was in Ravenna a few years ago and if I ever make it back, I will make an attempt to get a tripod permit as they require one (and quickly stopped you if you tried to use one) and it would have been extremely helpful. But Rome worked out great.

Sounds like it worked out well Tom. I'm sure you got some wonderful pictures in Rome. Any HDR? If you post your pics to a web site, let us know...would love to see them!