Users of works
Broadcasters, hotels, bars, events: your obligations and how to comply.
The principle
Any communication of a protected work to the public requires the prior authorisation of the rights holders and the payment of a royalty. This applies whether the use is paid or free, central or incidental to your business.
Are you concerned?
You are if your activity involves broadcasting, screening, retransmitting or reproducing audiovisual or photographic works. In practice:
- Television and radio stations — broadcasting and rebroadcasting of programmes.
- Cable and satellite operators — simultaneous and unaltered retransmission.
- Online platforms and video-on-demand services.
- Hotels, guesthouses and residences — programmes made available in rooms and common areas.
- Bars, restaurants and drinking establishments — screens showing programmes in public.
- Event organisers and public screenings.
- Passenger transport operators — on-board broadcasting.
- Shops and public spaces — ambient screens and photographic display.
What you obtain
A general representation contract with SCAAP covers the entire audiovisual and photographic repertoire managed by the society. You deal with a single contact rather than with each author, and you secure your business under the law.
What is the risk without authorisation?
Using a work without authorisation constitutes infringement under copyright law, exposing the operator to civil and criminal proceedings, in addition to the recovery of unpaid royalties.