Filming and Still Photography

In most cases, a permit is not necessary for casual visitor activities. There are some circumstances when a permit is needed for still photography and filming.

NPS Photo / Niki Ryan

 

When filming and photography 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.

 

Do I need a permit?

In most cases, permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that involves eight or fewer individuals. In order to avoid permit and fee requirements, the filming, still photography, or audio recording must meet all of the following conditions:

• Occurs in areas open to the public;
• Uses hand-carried equipment only;
• Does not require exclusive use of a site;
• Does not adversely impact park resources, values, or other visitors; and
• Is not likely to result in additional administrative costs for the NPS.

Permits and fees are never required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that is associated with an activity or event that has been authorized under a written instrument (e.g., permit or agreement), such as a wedding, sporting event, demonstration or other activity.

All filming, still photography, and audio recording is treated the same under the Section 125 of the new EXPLORE Act (Public Law 118-234). It does not matter whether it is commercial, non-commercial, for content creation, by a student, or conducted by media or for news gathering.

Individuals and groups conducting filming, still photography, or audio recording remain subject to all other laws and regulations applicable to visitors to park areas, including those requiring permits for certain activities (e.g., special events or demonstrations) and those prohibiting disturbance or other negative impacts to natural or cultural resources.

Individuals and groups conducting filming, still photography, or audio recording are subject to entrance and/or recreation fees that may apply in park areas even when a permit is not required.

In most cases, a permit is not necessary for visitors filming for personal enjoyment.

 

How do I apply for a permit?

You should submit a completed application along with the application fee as far in advance of your planned date as possible. In addition, you should request a meeting with park staff if your proposed activity is unusual or complex. Early consultation with park staff will help them process the submitted application in a timely manner. Contact the park with permit questions.

 

Application Forms

Download application forms and instructions. Return completed forms to the Park Headquarters in Johnson City or mail them to:

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park
Special Park Uses Coordinator
P.O. Box 329
Johnson City, TX 78636

 

10-932 Application for Special Use Permit: Filming/Still Photography

 

What fees will I have to pay?

Filming

Lyndon B. Johnson NHP will collect a cost recovery charge and a location fee for filming permits.

Cost Recovery Charge
This will include an application fee of $50 and any additional charges to cover the costs incurred by Lyndon B. Johnson NHP in processing your request and monitoring your permit. This amount will vary depending on the size and complexity of your permit. The application fee must be submitted with your application. Contact the park for more information.

Location Fee
In addition, the National Park Service has been directed by Congress to collect a location fee to provide a fair return to the United States for the use of park lands. The National Park Service uses the following filming fee schedule:

• 1–2 people, camera & tripod only - $0/day
• 1–10 people - $150/day
• 11–30 people - $250/day
• 31–49 people - $500/day
• Over 50 people - $750/day

Still Photography

Lyndon B. Johnson NHP will collect a cost recovery charge and a location fee for still photography permits.

Cost Recovery Charge
This will include an application fee of $50 and any additional charges to cover the costs incurred by Lyndon B. Johnson NHP in processing your request and monitoring your permit. This amount will vary depending on the size and complexity of your permit. Contact the park for more information.

Location Fee
In addition, the National Park Service has been directed by Congress to collect a location fee to provide a fair return to the United States for the use of park lands. The National Park Service uses the following still photography fee schedule:

• 1–10 people - $50/day
• 11–30 people - $150/day
• Over 30 people - $250/day

 

Are there other permit requirements?

You may be required to obtain liability insurance naming the United States as additionally insured in an amount commensurate with the risk posed to park resources by your proposed activity. You may also be asked to post a bond to ensure the payment of all charges and fees and the restoration of the area if necessary.