Since vehicle mods became possible in GTA V a few months ago, many modders require people to obtain permissions before converting a model from GTA IV. As many websites are handling this in different ways, I'd like to clarify our stance on the topic. Our terms of use state that all required rights have to be obtained before posting any form of content. To avoid confusion, we've recently added another term explicitly stating that modifictions without proper permission shouldn't be shown in the gallery. If somebody violates this rule repeatedly, we are going to remove his permissions to upload pictures to our gallery at all. Our aim is not to forbid pictures of personal mods altogether, but to prevent showcase of so-called stolen mods. In the past, rippers have posted stolen models on other websites simply for the purpose of provoking. If you don't have permission to have a mod, you may not show it.
There're different reasons for debates about permissions. For example in some cases, people struggle with the definition of personal use. Some authors allow personal use without requiring further permissions. Many people believe that a mod is private as long as it's not released, others think no pictures should be shown either. We believe that as long as you're the only one having access to a model, you're still using it privately, and you're free to post pictures. However, you always need to follow the original author's definitions.
Sometimes, the terms and conditions of a mod are changed after the first release. We're always going to try to find a fair solution for both original authors and for people who'd like to edit or convert a mod. We believe that as long as a person is not informed of a change in the conditions, they may continue to use the respective parts - using the terms they originally agreed to. Out of respect for the author's decision however, they should follow the updated terms as soon as they're aware of them.
Our aim is to give modders a website to present their content with their own conditions. We recommend everybody to write their own terms as clear as possible. If you use a precise phrasing, you may be able to avoid questions. If a modder allows editing for personal use but doesn't wish to see any pictures of it, people should follow that. Modding is a hobby that depends on work by other people, therefore we need to respect each other.
If it comes to a dispute about permissions, try to talk to each other in private and find a compromise you can both agree to. If you need help, feel free to contact a member of staff, as we may be able to assist you. We hope we'll be able to continue to have a friendly community and a website where everybody feels comfortable.