Joshua Tree National Park - permits (U.S. National Park Service)

Backcountry Permits
A permit is not required for day hiking in the backcountry. You are “permitted” to camp in the backcountry when you park and register at a backcountry registration board. There is no fee.

An unregistered vehicle or a vehicle left overnight somewhere other than at a backcountry board is a cause for concern about the safety of the vehicle’s occupants. It is also subject to citation and towing.

Filming Permits
Commercial filming or photography requires a filming permit. Permits are not required for visitors using cameras for personal use or for film or video news crews at breaking news events.

There are two applications for a filming permit: The short form (115k PDF) is intended for less complex activities and a crew of ten or fewer people. The long form (160k PDF) should be used for activities of greater complexity requiring a crew of more than ten.

Scientific Research and Collecting Permits
A permit is required to engage in research activities in the park. Fees are not charged for the permit, but an annual activity report must be submitted. Permit applications are completed online then reviewed by discipline specialists, who will contact the applicant for further information.

Special Use Permits
A special-use permit is required for activities that provide a benefit to an individual, group, or organization, rather than the public at large, and that require some degree of management from the National Park Service in order to protect park resources and the public interest.

Special-use permits are required for events such as: weddings, ceremonies, First Amendment activities, festivals, concerts, cultural programs, sporting events, and public spectator attractions. You may download a special-use application form (28k PDF).

For questions about permits, call 760-367-5545.