Overview
As both creators and users of images, presentations, videos, and illustrations it is important that we understand how to responsibly use them under US copyright law.
Copyright, a form of intellectual property law, protects original works of authorship including literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works, such as poetry, novels, movies, songs, computer software, and architecture. Copyright does not protect facts, ideas, systems, or methods of operation, although it may protect the way these things are expressed.
Copyright does not protect facts, ideas, systems, or methods—only how those ideas are expressed.
The information in this training is intended as a guide to copyright at the University of California and UC ANR, and should not be taken as legal advice. For more information on UC Copyright policies and more complex scenarios consult this page: http://copyright.universityofcalifornia.edu/
Ownership and Use of UC Master Gardener Materials
Volunteer-Created Materials
UC Master Gardener volunteers retain copyright ownership of materials they create, including images, videos, and educational content. However, by serving as UC volunteers, they grant The Regents of the University of California a nonexclusive, perpetual license to use those materials.
Volunteers acknowledge this agreement:
- During the initial application process
- Through the annual reappointment agreement
This means:
- Volunteers own their work
- UC can use the work indefinitely for program purposes
Staff-Created Materials
Materials created by UC staff as part of their job duties are the property of The Regents of the University of California.
Working With Freelancers
If you hire a photographer, videographer, or designer:
- Ensure contracts state that full usage rights belong to UC ANR and The Regents of the University of California
- Confirm rights before final payment or use of materials
Using Copyright Materials
UC Master Gardener staff and volunteers must not use copyrighted materials without permission, unless the material is clearly licensed for reuse.
When Permission Is Required
You must request permission if:
- The material is copyrighted
- The license does not allow your intended use
How to Request Permission
- Contact the copyright owner
- Describe:
- The material you want to use
- How you plan to use it
- Request written permission (email or signed form)
- If the owner provides additional terms or a license agreement, contact the UC ANR Permissions Officer for review and approval
For guidance, visit: copyright.universityofcalifornia.edu/use/obtaining-permission.html
Attribution Requirements
Attribution depends on the license terms for the material.
- Always follow the copyright owner’s preferred wording
- Do not assume that citing a source replaces permission
Example attribution:
© 2026 Regents of the University of California. Used by permission.
Where to Include Attribution
- Documents and presentations: Include a caption near the image or on the slide
- Videos (e.g., YouTube): Add attribution in the video description
Copyright Resources and Training
- Copyright and Permissions FAQ (Video, Womack, 06/13/2022)
- "If I find it on the web, it’s free to use, right?" (Video, Kintigh/Sanchez, 03/31/2021)
UC Copyright Website (Primary Resource)
For official guidance on copyright law, permissions, and proper use of materials, visit the University of California Office of the President (UCOP) copyright website. This site provides detailed information on when permission is required, how to request it, and how to evaluate whether content can be used.