43 CFR § 5.2 Commercial Filming and Similar Projects and Still Photography on Certain Areas Under Department Jurisdiction

§ 5.2 When do I need a permit for commercial filming or still photography?

Current through Aug 12, 2026 · Read all of Part 5

(a) All commercial filming requires a permit.

(b) Still photography does not require a permit unless:

(1) It uses a model, set, or prop as defined in § 5.12; or

(2) The agency determines a permit is necessary because:

(i) It takes place at a location where or when members of the public are not allowed; or

(ii) The agency would incur costs for providing on-site management and oversight to protect agency resources or minimize visitor use conflicts.

(c) Visitors do not require a permit for filming or still photography activities unless the filming is commercial filming as defined in § 5.12 or the still photography activity involves one of the criteria listed in § 5.2 (b).

← § 5.1 What does this subpart cover?§ 5.3 How do I apply for a permit? →