Photo courtesy of Thinkstock
Times Square characters' shenanigans have finally seen them painted into colorful little boxes.
That's where you will now find the many costumed people that adorn the area on a daily basis, taking pictures for tips from tourists walking the famed New York location.
ABC News reported that new rules took over Times Square on Tuesday, forcing anyone looking to busk for change to stay within designated areas.
[READMORE] READ MORE: 'Cookie Monster' Among Characters Arrested in Times Square for Harassing Tourists [/READMORE]
As you see from images below, the areas are splashed with vibrant colors so you know where to meander if you are the type that enjoy a brisk walk without being bombarded with the offer of a photograph opportunity.
The report quotes Carmen Peles, who dresses like Elsa from "Frozen." Peles stated, "Everybody agrees, we feel like we are in a jail. You spend an hour in a box and see how you feel."
Fortunately, you can leave the box anytime you want - unlike when you are, you know, locked up in an actual jail.
The designated areas are simply a way to corral those who seek profit for daring to dress ridiculously in a well-trodden place like Times Square.
Back in March we reported on the possibility of regulations being put into effect after years of costumed characters bullying tourists for tips.
If you do leave the area and perform (Read: walk around in a rented suit months removed from Halloween) then you can be hit with a $500 fine or time in an actual jail.
ABC News spoke with Police Capt. Robert O'Hare who explained there would be officers present: "We're not looking to hurt people here. If there's someone who's confused, we're here for clarification as well as enforcement."
[READMORE] READ MORE: Hard Rock Hotel New York Planned for Times Square [/READMORE]
Tourists can still get that photo by looking for these designated areas. Or you could head to a department store and pose with an Elmo doll, which is just as valuable a moment and quite possibly cheaper in the long run.
But we understand you may still want a picture with perfect strangers in costume. Thankfully, you can still do so. And hopefully, it's a far safer enterprise going forward.
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