Commercial Filming
Under federal law, all commercial filming that occurs within a unit of the National Park System requires a permit.
"Commercial filming" means recording a moving image by a person, business, or other entity with the intent of generating income. If I’m a social media influencer, do I need a permit? Federal law requires a permit for all commercial filming, including individuals or small groups that don’t use much equipment, but generate revenue by posting footage on websites, such as YouTube and TikTok. All filmers, no matter the size, must comply with all rules that apply in park areas, just like other visitors.
Federal law requires the NPS to recover its administrative costs for commercial filming and still photography activities that require a permit. Cost recovery includes an application fee, processing your request, and monitoring the permitted activities. This amount will vary depending on the park and the size and complexity of the permitted activities. The application fee must be submitted with your application. Federal law also requires the NPS to collect a location fee that provides a fair return to the United States for the use of park lands for commercial filming and for still photography requires a permit. The NPS uses the following fee schedules for filming and photography:
Still Photography
Permits issued for non-commercial filming may be subject to cost recovery charges, including an application fee, but a separate location fee will not be charged.
Still PhotographyDo I need a permit for still photography? In most cases, still photography does not require a permit. A permit is required for still photography only when:
*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 may be downloaded and are also available by contacting the park by email (PIPE_Interpretation@nps.gov) or phone (507) 825-5464 ext. 213. Submit a completed application along with the $40 application fee as far in advance of your planned date as possible. 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.
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.
If you are planning a photography workshop, you may need a commercial use authorization. See the commercial use authorization page for more information. |
Last updated: August 30, 2023