Commercial Still Photography

Effective October 28, 2022, the National Park Service rescinded interim guidance put in place during litigation regarding commercial filming. 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.Federal law requires a permit for all commercial filming, no matter the size of the crew or the type of equipment. This includes 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. 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

1. 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

1. the National Park Service 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. If you are interested in obtaining a film permit for Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, or have any questions about filming in the park, please inquire with the office of Special Park Uses at e-mail us or call 530-242-3412.In most cases, a permit is not necessary for visitors filming for personal enjoyment.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

1. 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

1. the National Park Service 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.