(A) The township recognizes that individuals have the constitutionally protected right to video and audio record anything that is visible from public spaces, which right specifically includes the right to record government employees, officials, and police officers conducting their official duties. See Fields v. City of Philadelphia, 862 F.3d 353, 356 (3d Cir. 2017).
(B) Real property owned by the township is considered PUBLIC PROPERTY unless access is otherwise restricted by locking doors or placing no trespassing, restricted access, employees only, or other appropriate signs.
(C) Individuals shall have the right to record inside areas of township buildings that are open to the public during routine business hours.
(D) Township employees may direct an individual who is filming inside township buildings not to engage in the following RESTRICTED ACTIVITY: blocking doorways, interfering with other citizens’ ability to engage with and enjoy the services offered by the township, harassing or intimidating township employees or other individuals, or any other illegal activity.
(E) Using recording devices, engaging in general dialogue, or asking questions of township employees pertaining to their official duties shall not qualify as RESTRICTED ACTIVITY.
(F) If an individual is engaged in audio and video recording, a township employee is encouraged, if able, to approach the individual, inform them that the township recognizes their lawful right to record, and ask if the employee can answer any questions they have of about the township. If the individual does not need assistance, the employee should return to their normal duties.
(Res. 2024-5, passed 4-24-2024)