Commercial Filming & Photography Permits

 

Commercial filming and certain still photography within the park require a special use permit. To inquire about obtaining a filming or photography permit, please contact the Permit Office.

A Note on Non-Commerical FIlming: In most cases, a permit is not necessary for visitors engaging in casual, non-commercial filming. However, a permit may be required if it is necessary to manage the activity to protect park resources and values, minimize conflicts between user groups, or ensure public safety. If you are unsure whether your activity requires a permit, please contact the Permit Office.

Commercial Filming

Under federal law, all commercial filming that occurs within a unit of the National Park System requires a permit. Commercial filming is defined as 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. Examples include feature films, videography, and documentaries. Commercial filming may also involve the advertisement of a product or service, or the use of actors, models, sets, or props.

Federal law mandates a permit for all commercial filming, regardless of the crew size or equipment type. This requirement applies even to individuals or small groups using minimal equipment, provided they generate revenue by sharing footage on social media platforms. All participants in commercial filming, irrespective of size, must adhere to the same rules that apply to park visitors. If you are interested in obtaining a film permit for Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park or have any questions about filming in the park, please contact the Permit Office.

In addition, the National Park Service (NPS) has been directed by Congress to collect a fee to provide a fair return to the United States for the use of park lands. The agency utilizes the following motion picture/video fee schedule:

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

Still Photography

Still photographers require a permit only when:

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

• 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 (portrait subjects such as wedding guests and graduates are not considered models)

• the park would incur additional administrative costs to monitor the activity

If still photography requires a permit, the NPS will collect a location fee and, separately, reimbursement for the actual costs incurred by the NPS in processing the request and administering the permit. Individuals and entities conducting still photography activities under a permit are exempt from paying entrance fees to a System unit. The NPS uses the following still photography fee schedule:

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

Photography Workshops: If you are interested in conducting a commercial instructional photography workshop, see Commercial Use Authorizations.

Permit Application Form

Applications for a permit must be submitted at least two weeks in advance. Complex uses or activities may require additional time for processing.

Note: Permits may require an application fee, cost recovery charges, a location fee, and/or proof of liability insurance naming the United States as additionally insured.

• Permit Application, Filming and Still Photography

To Apply:

1. Download and complete the application form above. Applications must include:
   • Applicant information, including name, contact information, and organization details
   • Information about the project, including location manager and description
   • Requested location schedule, including locations, dates, and number of cast/crew
   • Equipment information
   • Vehicle information
   • Signature of the applicant
   • Application fee
2. Submit application to [e-mail].

Application Review

Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis and are typically answered within one week. If approved, the permit office will respond with an email confirming the dates and details of your permit, along with an attached permit for your signature. Reservations are not confirmed until all fees have been paid, which can be completed via check or credit card.