Are Badges Protected by Copyright and Risks Renting "Props" from Prop Houses?

While Government badges are not considered a copyright issue, it can be a forgery issue. To avoid that altogether, do not use the real badge of any government agency. In fact, pass all badges, logos, signs, banners and anything else through your designated legal clearance team just to steer clear of any potential problems.

Prop houses are actually notorious for not having the rights to items they are renting out to you. To circumvent problems, you must see any and all paperwork from a prop house and you need a signed agreement from them before you can use any props. Prop houses can be tricky because they often want you to sign an invoice which will state additional conditions in small letters so have those invoices reviewed by an attorney before you sign.