As I understand it (IANAL), this is a somewhat controversial point of IP law. However, in the interests of playing it safe, a lot of stock photo agencies do require property releases for certain iconic structures such as the Sydney Opera House. This is in the same vein as model releases however. it's not copyright but the use of a likeness for commercial purposes.

I can take a picture of you on the street and use it for any editorial purpose. (Subject to not defaming you in some way.) But if I want to use that picture in an ad, I'd better have a model release.