Best photography rules

With a lot of places restrictive to photographers, I thought I'd mention one place that has what I think are some of the best photography rules I've come across.

Zilker Gardens in Austin is a stupidly popular place for family and engagement pictures.  Last year I drove up there to take engagement pictures of my step-brother and his fiancee and there were at least 20 other photographers out there.  Everything from Grandma taking pictures of her kids to a 4 person crew (photog, assistant, wardrobe, makeup).

Their rules.  1 - You can't use the bathrooms for changing.  2 - If you break any plants, you pay for 'em.  That's it.  No charge, no restrictions on equipment, no security guards chasing you around.

They're very small bathrooms  

I kind of like the way NYC's policy. You have to have a city permit to shoot. Anything, anywhere public. BUT, the permit is free for most shoots. You can go online now I understand, file for the permit, get approved in a day or less, and print out your permit. If you've got a big crew and plan on blocking the street then your going to pay, but regular stuff is free.
Why do I like this you may ask?
It helps keep people from abusing access to popular places and making it so nobody can shoot there without an act of congress or a fat bankroll. If ten groups are shooting at the same spot chances are someone didn't file, and they can be asked to leave and give everyone else a little breathing room.

Never thought I'd say NY had a better idea.

The Theler Wetlands Trails near me lets you do any photography you want, no charge, no permits. It's a beautiful location that most people don't know about.

*sigh* I live in small town Iowa and have no fun botanical gardens or anything overly spectacular (unless you get thrilled about corn or soybean fields), but on the plus side all of my locations are free and without restriction for photography.