When do I need a film permit?
Filming/Video: Activities on public lands that may require a permit include the use of motion picture, videotaping, sound recording or other moving image or audio recording equipment that involves actors, models, sets and/or props.
Public land users do not require a permit for short-term filming activities unless the activity would:
- cause appreciable damage or disturbance to the public lands, their resources or existing improvements, or
- is prohibited by closure of the lands to such activities.
Still Photography: Still photography activities that require a permit are those that:
- use models, sets or props that are not part of the site’s natural or cultural resources or administrative facilities (Portrait subjects such as wedding parties or high school graduates are not considered models.); or
- would take place where members of the public are generally not allowed; or
- would require onsite management and oversight for resource protection or to minimize conflict with other users.
Filming or still photography will NOT be permitted if it is determined that:
- there is likelihood of resource damage or public health and safety risks that cannot be mitigated, or
- there would be an unreasonable disruption of the public’s use and enjoyment of the site (beyond short-term interruption).