How do I get permission to use someone else’s work?

Answer

To get permission to use someone else's work, you need to ask! Permission must come from the copyright owner or collective representing the copyright owner and is required if you intend to use more than what the fair dealing exception allows (or in cases where the wording on the licence is vague).

The first step is to identify who the copyright owner is, and whether there is a collective that represents the owner. There are a number of copyright collectives in Canada that can provide you permission (in the form of a licence) on behalf of the copyright owner to use a work. If the copyright owner is easily identifiable and locatable, it can often be easier to contact them directly.

Often, you will be able to identify the owner somewhere on the work by looking for the copyright symbol, which should have the copyright owner’s name near it. You will often find this at the beginning of a book, at the side of a photograph, or at the bottom of a webpage.

It is important that the permission be in writing. Many copyright owners will give permission to academic users without requiring payment. You should keep a copy of any permission received. Consult our Obtaining Permission page to learn more.

Note: This answer comes from the Saskatchewan Polytechnic Copyright website, and provides educational information, not legal advice.