Google Earth imagery and C3D

[neilyj666]

Can anyone clarify what is legal and what is not in terms of the use of imagery from Google Earth??

As there is a direct interface between C3D and Google Earth there must be some implied legality but would like some clarification. As the imagery is not particularly good, they would typically be used as an overview when roughing out alignments etc and then printed out to illustrate various scheme scenarios - so would this comply with GE license terms or not??

[Joe-Bouza]

In GE >> Help>>license, Item 1 is very clear. the answer is you are not allowed to use the imagery or geographical information for any comercial purpose

[RickGraham]

Joe has it right, but I would also look into your state GIS sites for LiDAR. In my state (PA), they have an excellent GIS repository (pasda.psu.edu). On that site, they have decent LiDAR stuff for free. And it just takes a bit of Map to manipulate it, but it comes in nicely. And, it is MUCH more accurate than GE is. HTH, Rick

[neilyj666]

What is a "commercial purpose"???

Is it using them as a background to do rough design work and then supplying preliminary drawings to a client for which you get paid ?? Does the use as backgound imagery for design only constitute "commercial purpose"  even if the imagery is not included on a drawing for a client???

A potential legal minefield to keep Google's lawyers usefully employed undoubtedly....=$£$£$£$£$£$£$£$£

[Murph_Map]

I would say the $399.00 a year for the Professional version is a better investment than wondering if their lawyers come looking for you. I think the section here under Do I need the Pro Version is good advise.

[jmayo-EE]

"Is it using them as a background to do rough design work and then supplying preliminary drawings to a client for which you get paid ?? Does the use as backgound imagery for design only constitute "commercial purpose"  even if the imagery is not included on a drawing for a client???"

I would think yes in both cases. I would bet the lawyers would argue that simply viewing a client's site is a commercial use.

[neilyj666]

Thanks for the links and advice - looks like GE Pro is essential for any C3D user

Anyone use it and how much difference does it make over the free version (apart from legality obviously)