Film producers work with actors in an encampment scene.
NPS Photo / Berit Allison
Filming, Still Photography, and Audio Recording
In most cases, permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that involves eight or fewer individuals. In order to avoid permit and fee requirements, the filming, still photography, or audio recording must meet all of the following conditions:
Occurs in areas open to the public;
Uses hand-carried equipment only;
Does not require exclusive use of a site;
Does not adversely impact park resources, values, or other visitors; and
Is not likely to result in additional administrative costs for the NPS.
Permits and fees are never required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that is associated with an activity or event that has been authorized under a written instrument (e.g., permit or agreement), such as a wedding, sporting event, demonstration or other activity.
All filming, still photography, and audio recording is treated the same under the new law. It does not matter whether it is commercial, non-commercial, for content creation, by a student, or conducted by media or for news gathering.
When a filming, still photography, or audio recording permit is required, the National Park Service will charge location fees and fees to recover its costs to administer the permit, including application fees.
Individuals and groups conducting filming, still photography, or audio recording remain subject to all other laws and regulations applicable to visitors to park areas, including those requiring permits for certain activities (e.g., special events or demonstrations) and those prohibiting disturbance or other negative impacts to natural or cultural resources.
Individuals and groups conducting filming, still photography, or audio recording are subject to entrance and/or recreation fees that may apply in park areas even when a permit is not required.
You may need a permit if your group is more than eight individuals, or the activity does not meet any of the following conditions:
Occurs in areas open to the public;
Uses hand-carried equipment only;
Does not require exclusive use of a site;
Does not adversely impact park resources, values, or other visitors; and
Is not likely to result in additional administrative costs for the National Park Service.
If you believe that your filming, still photography, or audio recording activity may require a permit, please contact the park you are visiting before you conduct your activity for more information.
Apply for a filming permit at Grand Portage National Monument.
Thank you for your cooperation and efforts to help preserve and protect our park for present and future generations of canoeists, backpackers, and hikers.
Picnic tables and cooking grills at Fort Charlotte campgrounds
NPS photo
Best Practices
Backcountry travelers must have their permit in their possession while in the backcountry.
Once camp is established, the permit must be attached to a pack, tent, or other equipment in plain view so it can be easily checked by rangers. A plastic zip-lock style bag will keep your permit dry.
Permits are valid only for the trip leader, itinerary, number of people, and dates specified on the permit.
Permits for all overnight backcountry use must be obtained through Grand Portage National Monument.
Current Hydrograph The USGS provides a duration hydrograph that is very useful for forecasting paddling conditions on the Pigeon River from South Fowl Lake to Ft. Charlotte. After examining the current hydrograph (be sure to select the right year) you should note that very difficult paddling conditions can be expected at 100 cfs (cubic feet per second) and below. At this low water stage, you can expect exposed rocks in the river channel, especially where the English portage used to be located. The English portage is likely little used today as there is typically more than sufficient water to float through this section of river. Very good paddling conditions can be expected at 500 cfs. Conditions for paddling become more complex and difficult as discharge increases above 500 cfs.
