Public Performance Rights

Boston Gal's Open Wallet posted an article about a guy who uses a building to project a movie for his friends who set up lawn chairs in his yard.

*cue the Debbie Downer theme song*

Another commenter brought up the same issue I would have, which is does this guy secure public performance rights? My guess is probably not because he is not aware such a thing exists, not that it excludes him from the law.

Two common misconceptions regarding this topic are:

1. If admission is not charged for the public performance of a video/DVD, then you have not infringed the copyright nor do you need to request permission from the copyright owner.
   
2. XYZ has been doing and has not be caught, so it is okay.
   

I find the area of copyright law and intellectual freedom fascinating and if you are interested in learning more about copyright law and public performance rights, visit the Movie Licensing USA web site*. It is geared toward public libraries, but copyright compliance also applies to schools, daycare facilities, churches, businesses, prisons, parks & recreation departments, summer camps and a few more.

*from Librarian.net