Photography Rules in Singapore: Where You Cannot Take Pictures (2026) | Visiting Singapore

By the WahLiao desk · Last updated 4 October 2026

You can photograph almost anything in Singapore, but not protected areas and protected places. These are sensitive sites marked with signs, such as police stations, military camps and key infrastructure. Taking photos or videos of them without permission is an offence under the Infrastructure Protection Act, with a fine of up to S$20,000, jail of up to two years, or both. Changi Airport is a protected place too: its operator says photography of sensitive areas needs permission, and security staff can tell you to stop and delete.

Singapore is one of the most photographed cities in Asia, and nobody minds a camera on the Marina Bay waterfront. The rule is simple: if there is a sign, believe it.

Photography: quick facts

The law	The Infrastructure Protection Act 2017
No photos of	Protected areas and places, marked with signs; police stations included
Penalty	A fine of up to S$20,000, jail of up to 2 years, or both
Officers can	Tell you to stop, inspect your photos and require you to delete them
Changi Airport	Permission needed for sensitive areas; filming permits from Changi Airport Group
Drones	Separate rules; see the drone guide

The WahLiao Verdict

Fine to shoot	Streets, skylines, gardens, hawker centres and attractions.
Never shoot	Anything behind a “Protected Area” or “Protected Place” sign.
Ask first	Before photographing people up close, especially children, and at places of worship.
If stopped	Stop, show, delete; do not argue.
Worth knowing	Some shops, supermarkets and museums ban photos; follow the signs.

Protected areas and places

The Home Affairs Ministry describes protected areas and places as sensitive installations. They display signs at their perimeter, and where photography is banned the signs say so. Authorised officers can stop you, examine your photos and require you to delete them. Police stations are protected areas, and people have been charged in court for filming inside one.

People and places of worship

Singaporeans are used to cameras, but ask before photographing people up close, especially children, and follow each temple, mosque or church’s rules. For drones, read flying a drone; for other rules, laws and fines.

Photography: FAQ

Can I take photos anywhere in Singapore?

Almost anywhere, except protected areas and places and anywhere with a no-photography sign.

Can I take photos at Changi Airport?

Changi is a protected place. Photography of sensitive areas needs permission, and security staff can ask you to stop.

What is the fine for photographing a protected place?

Up to S$20,000, jail of up to two years, or both.

Can I photograph police stations in Singapore?

No. Police stations are protected areas.