The Public Domain

The public domain is the realm of information and culture where intellectual property protection does not apply. When copyrights and patents expire, innovations and creative works enter the public domain. Some works such as facts and government documents are not eligible for copyright and automatically enter the public domain. Anything in the public domain may be used by anyone without permission and without the payment of a license fee. The public domain is a treasure trove of information, resources, and inspiration that artists and creators constantly use to make new works.