When can I legally use copyrighted material?

2. Has the copyright expired?

Copyright protection starts as soon as a work is created

  • Once copyright has expired, anyone can use or copy the work (though you should still give a full acknowledgement of the source of any material copied)
  • The length of copyright depends on the type of work and how long ago it was created

The copyright duration table below provides some general guidelines:

Type of workHow long copyright usually lasts

Written, dramatic, musical and artistic work

70 years after the author’s death

Sound and music recording

70 years from when it’s first published

Films

70 years after the death of the director, screenplay author and composer

Broadcasts

50 years from when it’s first broadcast

Layout of published editions of written, dramatic or musical works

25 years from when it’s first published

(Information republished from the Government webpage How long copyright lasts under the Open Government Licence v3.0)

Terms and conditionsWhat if the material is from a website?

If it is, you must make sure that you read and follow the Terms and Conditions or Terms of Use for the website.

Next: 3. Do I already have permission?

Image Credits

Terms and Conditions image: by MP and BC 2019