Commercial Filming and Still Photography Permits

Effective October 28, 2022 and following a decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia on October 21, 2022, the National Park Service (NPS) functionally reinstated previous laws and regulations related to commercial filming in national parks. The NPS has rescinded the interim guidance that was in place during litigation and has returned to longstanding laws and regulations governing commercial filming in parks.

This means that all commercial filming that occurs within a unit of the National Park System requires a permit. "Commercial filming" means the film, electronic, magnetic, digital, or other recording of a moving image by a person, business, or other entity for a market audience with the intent of generating income. Individual parks may require a permit for non-commercial filming if a permit is necessary to manage the activity to protect park resources and values, minimize conflict between user groups, or to ensure public safety. More details about filming and permits in parks are available online: Filming & Still Photography Permits (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

Still photography requires a permit when:

1. the activity takes place at location(s) where or when members of the public are generally not allowed; or

2. 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; or
   two weeks advanced notice to consider and process commercial still photography permit applications. This additional time is required due to the logistical complexities and nature of the park.
3. a park would incur additional administrative costs to monitor the activity.

How do I apply for a permit?

Please note that Channel Islands National Park requires a minimum of two weeks of advance notice to consider and process permit applications. This additional time is required due to the logistical complexities and nature of the park.

Applicants can greatly assist in expediting the process by providing a complete application that clearly addresses who, what, when, where, why, and how in direct reference to the proposed activity. In order for the proposed activity to receive due consideration, the applicant must provide sufficient detail. Proof of liability insurance may also be included.

Send a hard copy of the application with an original signature and the non-refundable application fee to:

Chief Ranger
Channel Islands National Park
1901 Spinnaker Drive
Ventura, CA 93001

Applications will not be finalized until the hard copy application containing an original signature and payment of the non-refundable application fee has been received.

Application Forms and Fee Schedule:

• Commercial Filming and Still Photography Application Form 10-932 (MS Word)
• Commercial Filming and Still Photography Fee Schedule

Release Forms:

• Image and Consent Release (PDF)

For more information about commercial filming, video and still photography in the park, please contact the park's Film Permit Coordinator by email or phone at [phone].