Do I need a permit to film?Effective October 28, 2022, the National Park Service (NPS) has rescinded interim guidance that was in place during litigation regarding commercial filming and has returned to longstanding laws and regulations governing commercial filming in parks. Application FormSubmit a Still Photography Application to the Division of Permits Management in person or via mail or FAX: Mailing Address for Permit Applications: Attn: Special Use Permit Coordinator Applications can be delivered Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm, by mail or email. Applications are accepted up to one year in advance and a minimum of two weeks from the activity. Application Processing CostA non-refundable application processing cost of $50 is required with the submission of the Still Photography Application. Follow the instructions on the application form for submitting a payment by credit card, check, or money order. Laws and RegulationsAll activities in park areas – including filming even if a permit is not required – must comply with all visitor use regulations in 36 C.F.R., including but not limited to those prohibiting resource damage (36 C.F.R. § 2.1), protecting wildlife (36 C.F.R. § 2.2) or mitigating audio disturbances (36 C.F.R. § 2.12), and any restrictions on visitor use in the park’s compendium, such as restrictions on the use of unmanned aircraft systems (i.e., drones). Filming of any kind may not occur in closed areas without written authorization. Filming activities may not violate applicable laws, such as the Endangered Species Act, the Archeological Resources Protection Act, or the Wilderness Act. All filming must comply with laws protecting the NPS’s intellectual property, such as laws and regulations governing the use of the NPS Arrowhead and images of NPS employees.The organizer of any other type of filming activity must provide written notice to the Superintendent at least 10 days prior to the start of the proposed activity. Based upon the information provided, the Superintendent may require the organizer to apply for and obtain a permit if necessary, to:
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Last updated: April 9, 2023