Re: FN-FORUM: Ordnance Survey map data

date posted 16th May 2007 14:57

> If the original grid locations were taken from an OS source (paper or
> mapdata) then the OS can claim copyright. You would need to use a GPS
> and go out and record the LAT/LNG.

How else can you obtain an OS grid reference, other than from OS data? If
none, then this means you need a license from OS if you publish a grid
reference on a web site. In which case I would guess that there are a huge
number of licence infringements! Not least anyone locating things in the
UK using the Google Maps API.

> It's no different than taking a passage out
> of a book sending that to someone so they can use it as a quote in their
> work.

I'd say it was different, because I'm not copying anything. I'm using a
map to find the OS grid reference of a point, and then publishing that
grid reference. People have been doing that since the OS grid was invented.

> It is still copyright covered. Check out creative commons website
> http://creativecommons.org It does sound silly but the OS are very
> protective because they spend many millions each year making sure the
> coordinates are accurate.

I understand that. But what I want to do doesn't impact on the OS's income
at all!

Cheers!

Anthony
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