Is it illegal to use real cities and roads in my game without permission?

Hello
I am currently developing a street racing game using unity. I have done a lot of research about legal issues such as not being able to use real cars and businesses without permission. Yet through my fesearch I am unable to find if I can use real city names and real streets (design and names for the streets) without permission. I know that large video game releases have used real cities before but I can not find any specific legal information on whether or not this is legal without permission fromnthe city or state. Any information you guys could give would be awesome. Thank you

 

I am not a lawyer.

http://www.avvo.com/legal-answers/are-the-names-of-cities-and-states-trademarked--788411.html

 

ya sure go ahead. you have my full permission
- random internet guy

 

If you the use real roads maybe ppl will notice they have gone missing?

 

There can be contractual issues with specific car manufacturers and using their cars in real-world locations that are not dedicated race tracks. They may not want their brand associated with street racing in real cities, for example. You may also be accused of encouraging illegal street racing if you use a real-world location and accurate roads. I wouldn't worry about it if you are just making a little indie game.

 

No, but you can use models of them. And if you put too much detail you'll liable to get legal challenges. I bought models over 5 years ago and they very nice ones of some major cities and interesting to explore. they are far to big to be of practical use in a game though. Even using in a console game would present problems.