It is the policy of the National Park Service to allow and encourage photography within the National Park System, consistent with the protection and public enjoyment of resources.

The NPS will not require a permit for photographers, commercial or non-commercial, to go anywhere or to do anything that members of the public are generally allowed to go or do without a permit. This is true whether or not the photographer uses tripods, strobe lights, or interchangeable lenses. Coverage of breaking news never requires a permit but is subject to restrictions and conditions necessary to protect park resources, public health and safety, and to prevent derogation of park resources, values or purposes.

A permit is required if the Superintendent determines there is a potential of a photography project's harming or having an impact on the park's natural, cultural or recreational resources, or creating unacceptable health or safety risks, or disrupting visitor use and enjoyment. A permit is also required pursuant to 36 CFR 5.5(b) for persons taking photographs of vehicles, other articles of commerce or models for the purpose of commercial advertising.

If a photography permit is required, the NPS will impose only those conditions necessary to accomplish the needed resource protection or visitor enjoyment objectives. Liability insurance requirements and other limitations should not be made unduly burdensome. For advertising photography, it is appropriate to impose a permit condition that prohibits implied or stated Service endorsement of the advertised product or service.