Using Images from Google Maps / Google Earth

[tech_guy]

Is it okay to use images taken from Google Maps / Earth on your website so long as you credit them as the source such as in this example on the BBC News Website:

 

STORY:

BBC News - Bulkington railway bridge closed for after being repeatedly hit

 

IMAGE USED:

 

I have emailed the mighty Google as I want to use some of their imagery on a website but as yet have not had a reply.

 

Many thanks!

Edited November 4, 2013 by tech_guy

[Gibbo]

It all depends. The BBC might pay Google something for their use.

[Valyyn]

Good guidelines here:

Permissions ? Google

 

Basically, yes as long as you a) credit them and b) don't modify the image.

 

With regards to Streetview, you're apparently not allowed to basically screenshot and use the static image, you have to link to it, so that "if Google edits or removes imagery in response to user requests, these changes will be reflected in your project as well."

Street View imagery may be incorporated into your project if 1) the imagery comes directly from the Google Maps API or 2) the imagery is embedded or linked on your website using the HTML and URL provided on Google Maps.

 

Edit: The BBC have actually just uploaded the photo onto their servers, but I'd guess they have a broadcast license which gives them extra permissions.

Edited November 4, 2013 by Valyyn