I got reminded by the US Capitol Police that this shot was
illegal because I did not have a permit to take pictures
using a tripod. I never saw any signs saying a permit was needed.
Thankfully they let me keep the image (and the tripod!).

I did go and ask about a permit, and they were prepared to have
me go into the Capitol Building at 11 pm to get processed for a
permit. One of the officers told me that a permit only allows
for pictures to be taken from grassy areas --- so this picture
would still be illegal from where I shot this. I don't know if
this rule is in place all the time, or if they were on heightened
alert because of the 10 year anniversary of 9/11 was near.
So you can take pictures, just not with a tripod.