Commercial filming in parks is governed by laws found in federal statute 54 U.S.C. 100905 and Department of Interior and National Park Service regulations 43 CFR Part 5 and 36 CFR 5.5.
All commercial filming requires a permit, no matter the size of the crew or the type of equipment.
Commercial filming means the film, electronic, magnetic, digital, or other recording of a moving image by a person, business, or other entity for a market audience with the intent of generating income. Examples include, but are not limited to, feature film, videography, and documentaries. Commercial filming may include the advertisement of a product or service, or the use of actors, models, sets, or props.
Please note that basic commercial filming and photography applications and payments must be received a minimum of 21 days before the requested date. Applications cannot be rushed for any reasons. Larger or more complex filming project applications must be received at least 30 days in advance.
Production groups that have never worked at Mount Rushmore National Memorial before are also required to complete a site visit before submitting an application. This ensures that all parties are aware of the possible filming locations and that these locations are specifically listed on the permit application.
View the Guidelines for Commercial Filming and Still Photography to get more information about permits for these activities.
How to Apply
Submit a Commercial Filming and Still Photography Permit Application or Non-Commercial Filming and Still Photography Permit Application to:
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Special Use and Filming Permit Coordinator
13000 Highway 244
Building 31, Suite 1
Keystone, SD 57751
