Film, Photography, and Sound Recording Permits

 
Ranger and television host being filmed by cameraman with waterfall in the background

NPS Photo/J. Bonney

When film, photography, and sound recording activities occur in national parks, they must be consistent with the protection of park resources and avoid conflict with public use and enjoyment of the park.

 
 

When do you need a permit to film in Grand Teton?

Under federal law, all commercial filming that occurs within a unit of the National Park Service requires a permit.

 

When is a permit needed for still photography?

In most cases, still photography does not require a permit. A permit is required for still photography when:

  • The activity takes place at location(s) where or when members of the public are generally not allowed.
  • The activity uses model(s)*, sets(s), or prop(s) that are not a part of the location's natural or cultural resources or administrative facilities.
  • A park would incur additional administrative costs to monitor the activity.

* A “model” means a person or object that serves as the subject for still photography for the purpose of promoting the sale or use of a product or service. Models include, but are not limited to, individuals, animals, or inanimate objects, such as vehicles, boats, articles of clothing, and food and beverage products. Portrait subjects, such as wedding parties and high school graduates, are not considered models, if the image will not be used to promote or sell a product or service.

 

When is a permit needed for sound recording?

Audio recording does not require a permit unless:

  • It takes place at location(s) where or when members of the public are generally not allowed.

  • It uses equipment that requires mechanical transport.

  • It uses equipment that requires an external power source other than a battery pack.

  • The agency would incur additional administrative costs to provide management and oversight of the permitted activity to:
    • Avoid unacceptable impacts and impairment to resources or values.
    • Minimize health or safety risks to the visiting public.
 

Fees & How to Apply

Federal law requires the National Park Service to recover its administrative costs for commercial filming and still photography activities that require a permit. Cost recovery includes an application fee and any additional charges to cover the costs incurred by the park in processing your request and monitoring your permit. The application fee must be submitted with your application.

 

What else do I need to know about film, photography, and sound recording permits?

 

Contact Us

For more information call 307-739-3616 or e-mail us.

Last updated: March 29, 2023

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 170
Moose, WY 83012

Phone:

307-739-3399
Talk to a Ranger? To speak to a Grand Teton National Park ranger call 307–739–3399 for visitor information Monday-Friday during business hours.

Contact Us