Crestview advances photography ordinance that allows commercial shoots and sets youth-sports vetting requirements

The Crestview City Council approved on first reading a revision to the city code that clarifies where commercial photography is allowed on city recreational property and directs staff to develop a registration and background-check policy for photographers working with youth sports.

Staff told the council the amendment retains prohibitions in some areas of city recreational property but creates exceptions for commercial photography generally, for special events, and for activities permitted by franchises or city contracts. Staff said they will work with Parks and Recreation to design a vetting process for photographers who provide youth-sports photography and that the staff report includes proposed fees: $25 registration (valid 365 days) and $30 per-person background check.

"One of those exceptions is for commercial photography in general," staff said, adding that the registration and background check are intended to ensure the safety of youth participating in city-run sports.

During public comment, Gia DeMario asked how the city would distinguish commercial photography from youth-sports photography and whether a city business license would be required. DeMario said she was concerned that the ordinance appears to treat sports photographers differently and asked who would be responsible for approving photographers and how the city would regulate multiple photographers at the same event.

City Manager and staff responded that photographers who want the city to advertise their services or to be provided to coaches must be approved; Parks and Recreation will evaluate registrations and the city will only distribute contact information for photographers who have been vetted for youth sports. Staff said the registration fee is intended to cover administrative costs for staff time and background checks.

Motion by Councilwoman Allison, second by Councilman Frost, to approve Ordinance 2,013 on first reading passed 4-0 (one absence). Staff will return with a detailed Parks and Recreation registration policy and background-check procedure before second reading.