Permits & Reservations

Permits

Certain types of activities require a special use permit. These include many types of organized gatherings, distribution of printed material and other public expressions of opinion, and other activities that are controlled or prohibited.

Some common activities that require a permit include:

• Commercial Photography
• Weddings
• First Amendment Activities
• Competitive Event

More Information
For more information about special use permits please call [phone] x222 or email the park's special use coordinator.

Permit Application Forms

Permit Application, short form (831 KB pdf)

Permit Application, long form (836 KB pdf)

Commercial Photography Permit, short form (837 KB pdf)

Commercial Photography Permit, long form (849 KB pdf)

Applications for a permit must be submitted in advance. You may use either the short (10-931) or long (10-932) form depending on the complexity of the project. Unless requested use is an exercise of a First Amendment right or commercial filming, applications must be accompanied by a non-refundable, $75 check made out to "The National Park Service." Permit may require the payment of cost recovery charges, a location fee, and proof of liability insurance naming the United States as also insured.

Still Photography

When is a permit needed?
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; or
• 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
• A park would incur additional administrative costs to monitor the activity.

What fees will I have to pay?
The National Park Service will collect a cost recovery charge and a location fee for still photography permits. Cost recovery includes an application fee and any additional charges to cover the costs incurred by the National Park Service in processing your request and monitoring your permit. This amount will vary depending on the park and the size and complexity of your permit. The application fee must be submitted with your application.

In addition, the National Park Service 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 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.

What about photography workshops?
If you are planning a photography workshop, you may need a commercial use authorization. Please contact the park directly at [phone] x222 for more information.