Laws & Policies

Firearms in National Parks

On February 22, 2010 the law governing possession of firearms inside a national park changed.

Visitors may possess firearms within a national park unit provided they comply with federal, state, and local laws. Please remember that federal law prohibits firearms in certain park facilities and buildings. These places are marked with signs at public entrances.

Please also be aware that in New York state it is unlawful for any non-resident person to carry, possess or transport a handgun in or through the state unless they have a valid New York license.

The role of the responsible gun owner is to know and obey the federal, state, and local laws appropriate to the park they are visiting.

• For more information about New York City gun laws, please visit this website.
• For more information about New York State gun laws, please visit this website.
• For more information about New Jersey gun laws, please visit this website.

 

Commercial Filming on Park Land

Effective October 28, 2022, the National Park Service (NPS) has rescinded interim guidance that was in place during litigation regarding commercial filming and has returned to longstanding laws and regulations governing commercial filming in parks. Under federal law, 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. Examples include, but are not limited to, feature film, videography, and documentaries. Commercial filming may include the advertisement of a product or service, or the use of actors, models, sets, or props.

Still Photography

In most cases, still photography does not require a permit.
A permit is required for still photography only 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

3. park would incur additional administrative costs to monitor the activity.

A “model” means a person or object that serves as the subject for still photography for the purpose of promoting the sale or use of a product or service. Models include, but are not limited to, individuals, animals, or inanimate objects, such as vehicles, boats, articles of clothing, and food and beverage products. Portrait subjects, such as wedding parties and high school graduates, are not considered models.

How do I apply for a permit?

Permit applications are available through each park's administrative office or website.

Find a park where you would like to film or take photographs. If you believe that your filming or photography activity may require a permit, you should submit a completed application to the park where you want to film or photograph as far in advance of your planned date as possible.

Some parks may require that you provide advance notice a certain amount of days before filming or photography begins. 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.

More Information

Learn more information about Filming & Still Photography Permits.