Uploaded April 2021 | Updated September 2026, 6 hours ago
February 2021
Strom Thurmond Federal Building
1835 Assembly Street
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Here to test the response of security and law enforcement personnel on the public's right to videotape federal property. Before entering this building I walked completely around the block, taking note of all the posted signs. Upon entering the main entrance I was met by the Diversified Protection Corporation Security Officers that wanted to know where I was headed. I informed them that I just wanted to come inside the public lobby, and take photographs of the signs posted for the public. They insisted that I go through screening and show ID. I informed them that I was not going beyond the public lobby, and that there rules allow me to photograph entrances, lobbies, foyers, corridors and auditoriums. They did not seem to be aware of that, and would not call a supervisor to inform them.
Even though the security officers were professional and cordial they did not know the rules and regulations relating to public photography on federal property.
The United States Department of Homeland Security disseminated an Information Bulletin HQ-IB-012-2010 that provides clarification to the Federal Protective Service, and it's Protective Security Officers that the public has a First Amendment right to photograph federal facility building entrances, lobbies, foyers, corridors and auditoriums, and directs FPS law enforcement personnel and PSOs to maintain security without adversely impacting the public’s rights relating to photography.
February 2021
Strom Thurmond Federal Building
1835 Assembly Street
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Here to test the response of security and law enforcement personnel on the public's right to videotape federal property. Before entering this building I walked completely around the block, taking note of all the posted signs. Upon entering the main entrance I was met by the Diversified Protection Corporation Security Officers that wanted to know where I was headed. I informed them that I just wanted to come inside the public lobby, and take photographs of the signs posted for the public. They insisted that I go through screening and show ID. I informed them that I was not going beyond the public lobby, and that there rules allow me to photograph entrances, lobbies, foyers, corridors and auditoriums. They did not seem to be aware of that, and would not call a supervisor to inform them.
Even though the security officers were professional and cordial they did not know the rules and regulations relating to public photography on federal property.
The United States Department of Homeland Security disseminated an Information Bulletin HQ-IB-012-2010 that provides clarification to the Federal Protective Service, and it's Protective Security Officers that the public has a First Amendment right to photograph federal facility building entrances, lobbies, foyers, corridors and auditoriums, and directs FPS law enforcement personnel and PSOs to maintain security without adversely impacting the public’s rights relating to photography.
