BEIJING -- China's environmental watchdog and several ministries have introduced new rules banning filming and artistic performances in nature reserves, scenic spots and areas of historical interest.

"People who violate the regulation and damage the environment in these places will be dealt with harshly," runs the regulation, issued jointly by the State Environmental Protection Administration (SEPA) and the construction and culture ministries and the State Administration of Cultural Heritage.

Filming in nature reserves has been a touchy public issue in China since helmer Chen Kaige's film "The Promise" was accused of littering and destroying vegetation at a scenic area in Shangri La in the southwestern province of Yunnan in 2004.

The producer was fined $11,250 and a local official was fired for neglecting his duty, but many felt the punishment was too light.

The new regulations, which were introduced in December but are only being publicized now, allow for fines of up to $125,000 for damaging vegetation in scenic areas.

Some limited filming and performance will be allowed in "experimental zones" as well as the outer sections of scenic spots and some cultural heritage sites, but approval must be given for sets and stages and follow closely rules on how to dismantle and dispose of sets after shooting is finished.

Around 15% of China's land area, or 1.5 million square kilometers, is covered by nature reserves.

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