Filming & Still Photography
Do I need a permit to film?
The following types of filming activities may occur in areas open to the public without a permit and without advance notice to the NPS:
- Outdoor filming activities [outside of areas managed as wilderness]2 involving five persons or less and equipment that will be carried at all times, except for small tripods used to hold cameras.
The organizer of any other type of filming activity must provide written notice to the Superintendent at least 10 days prior to the start of the proposed activity. Based on the information provided, the Superintendent may require the organizer to apply for and obtain a permit if necessary to:
- maintain public health and safety;
- protect environmental or scenic values;
- protect natural or cultural resources;
- allow for equitable allocation and use of facilities; or
- avoid conflict among visitor use activities.
Those interested in filming activities on land managed by the National Park Service are encouraged to contact the park’s Permit Office (646) 356-2107 or email for more information about filming in the park and to discuss how to minimize potential impacts to visitors and sensitive park resources.
Are fees still required to film in parks?
As of January 22, 2021, the National Park Service is no longer collecting application or location fees, or cost recovery for filming.
Special Use Permits
Download the Special Use Permit
Required for organizing and performing activities or assemblies which provide a benefit to an individual, group or organization, rather than the public at large. Special use permits are also needed for activities that require National Park Service staff to protect park resources, the public interest, or both.
Examples include, but are not limited to, the following:
- ceremonies
- performances
- festivals
- cultural programs
Filing a permit application alone does not grant you the right to your activity. Permit applications may be approved or rejected by the park. The $50 fee is nonrefundable, whether your application is approved or denied.
Permit applications must be submitted at least five (5) business days in advance.
The park requires permit applications to be submitted at least five (5) business days before the proposed event.
Permits are reviewed & coordinated through the park’s Permit Office (646) 356-2107 or email.
Permit Application Fee
Once a permit application is submitted, you will be charged a nonrefundable $50 application fee. This fee will not be returned even if your application is rejected. The $50 application fee may be waived for those submitting requests for school band, choir or dance performances and for certain ceremonies, such as reenlistments.
First Amendment Activities
Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are constitutional rights. However, the courts have recognized that activities associated with the exercise of these rights may be reasonably regulated to protect park resources. Therefore, all First Amendment activities require special use permits. The National Park Service may regulate the time, place, and manner in which they are conducted.
Application Submittal
Please read the application carefully before filling it out. Special Use Permit applications and Filming Permit applications may be submitted via email or sent via US Postal Service to:
Statue of Liberty National Monument
Attn: Permits
Liberty Island
New York, NY 10004
