NPA members publish independently and in many forms. These principles apply to all of them. They are written for working journalists, and we ask every member to follow them.
1. Seek the truth and report it accurately
Verify before you publish. Attribute information to its source. Do not distort facts, quotes, images or video. When you get something wrong, correct it quickly and visibly.
2. Be honest about who you are
Identify yourself as a journalist when asked. Do not present your NPA membership as a government credential, and do not use it to suggest you have police, government or parking authority. Your membership does not give you access to any scene or event.
3. Minimize harm
Treat people with care, especially victims, children, and people who are grieving or in crisis. Weigh the public value of a story against the harm it may cause, and do not publish private information that serves no public interest.
4. Never harass, stalk or intimidate
Gathering news is not a license to follow people, confront them repeatedly after they have asked you to stop, or wait outside their homes. Respect personal space and private property. Hold public officials to account through questions and records, not pressure tactics.
5. Respect the law
Do not trespass. Follow lawful instructions from police and property owners, including orders to move, even when you plan to challenge them later. Learn the recording and consent rules where you work: some states require everyone’s consent to record a conversation. Do not interfere with police operations or emergency response.
6. Be independent and transparent
Disclose conflicts of interest, paid relationships and sponsored content. Keep advertising and promotion clearly separate from reporting. Do not accept payment or favors in exchange for coverage without saying so.
7. Be accountable
Explain your methods when asked. Respond to criticism and corrections in good faith.
Misuse of membership
The NPA may suspend or end a membership for violations of this code, including misuse of NPA membership or credentials. See our Terms of Use.
Further reading
Members are encouraged to read the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics, a widely used industry standard, and our editorial standards.
Last updated: October 24, 2026