Generally: YES. Flash is not allowed anywhere (and in most cases, would be a bad idea anyway), and you're generally not allowed to use a tripod (in some places, like the Palace at Versailles, they actually require that you check any tripods; not sure about the Louvre, but you might as well not bring one, because you won't be allowed to use it).
Having visited a couple national museums in and around Paris(the Louvre, Orsay, the Palace at Versailles), these seem to be the general rules (as of November, 2009).
Contrary to some old reports you might see on the web, photos are currently allowed in the room with The Mona Lisa (not to mention Winged Victory and the Venus de Milo). Everyone visiting there is taking photos, plus I asked one of the staff just to make sure.
Temporary exhibitions tend to not allow photos. Look for the signs carefully. There are usually two types of signs: one for no flash Photography (for the permanent exhibitions) and one for no photography at all (temporary exhibitions). You should assume no photography at temporary exhibitions. Whenever you're not sure, ask a staff member.
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