Navigating the world of photography permits can seem daunting, but securing the right permissions is essential for both amateur and professional photographers alike. Whether you’re planning to shoot a serene landscape, a bustling cityscape, or a private venue, understanding the legal requirements and obtaining the necessary permits can help you avoid legal issues, avoid awkward disruptions in your client shoot, and respect the locations you aim to capture. Don’t know where to start when it comes to permit acquisition or purchase? We answered a few commonly asked questions about photography permits that will help you out before your next shoot.
1. When do you need a photography permit?
Determining when you need a photography permit is the crucial first step in your photographic journey. Generally, permits are required when shooting on private property, in national parks, or in city-owned spaces where regulations are strictly enforced. Commercial photography, including shoots involving models, sets, or equipment that go beyond a simple camera setup, often necessitates a permit to ensure all activities comply with local laws. Additionally, some public areas may require permits for photography intended for commercial use to manage the impact on the environment and community. Understanding these conditions can help you plan your shoot to ensure compliance and avoid potential fines or disruptions.
If you live in high production areas or metropolitan areas then enforcement is going to be far more strict because there is money in production and they know that enforcing these laws will yield revenue in areas/cities where production frequently occurs.
We’d recommend always shooting with a permit, but if you are in high production cities/states it’s really more of a requirement than a suggestion. You can risk it, but the chances of getting penalized are far greater in these locations.
2. How much do photography permits cost?
Photography permits range from $50 to thousands of dollars depending on the location.  Sometimes the permits are free, but still required, so check the location before you go, but it’s safe to assume a permit is required. Also, some permits cover an entire city or an entire set of parks.
To give you an idea of the range, here are a few real world examples from popular photography locations around our Southern California area:
OC Parks Annual Permit – $150 for the entire year
Greystone Mansion Permit – $370 per hour
Huntington Library – $2,500/day on weekday,s $3,500/day on weekends
3. Where do i purchase a photography permit?
Research online to see who/what manages the property you will be shooting on. For state parks, they will often have a link on their site, and it will detail if you need to purchase a yearly, monthly, or daily permit. For public/municipal parks they will often have a place where you can permit a certain number of local parks for a year. If applying online isn’t an option you can always call the facility if an office is available for contact.
4. Do i need to carry my photography permit on my shoot?
Chances are locations that require permits will enforce the possession of them. It is advisable to have a physical copy of the permit on hand in case an officer or property manager requests to see proof of authorization. This can help you avoid any misunderstandings or legal complications during your shoot. Additionally, keeping a digital copy accessible on your smartphone or other electronic devices can serve as a backup. Some jurisdictions also provide badges or specific identifiers that photographers must display during their session. Ensuring you have all necessary documents readily available not only shows professionalism but also helps maintain a smooth and uninterrupted workflow during your photography projects.
5. Benefits of having a photography permit
Some photographers can be disrespectful or ignorant; parking illegally, littering, climbing and walking in areas they shouldn’t, etc. Those with a permit are generally far more respectful of rules, thus, when you run into other photographers who have bought permits, it’s easier to work with them and share the location because they are more likely to be considerate.
In a local example, Laguna Beach has become so busy with shoots that it’s often difficult to even find a place to shoot without having another photographer in the background. When you are working with paying clients and are paying for permits, this is an unideal situation given most other photographers aren’t. Enforcement ensures that those with the right to be there can actually shoot and have a good experience.
6. If you don’t have a photography permit
Obviously obtaining a permit is best practice and the only legal means of shooting, but if you insist on flying under the radar then here is what we recommend:
- Carry no more than 1 bag: this is a significant indicator that you are a pro photographer offering professional services. Keep your gear to a minimum.
- No off-camera light modifiers (reflectors) or legs (flash stands/tripods): the more it looks like a production the higher than chances of the assumption that you are running a commercial shoot.
- Don’t bring assistants or anyone other than you and the subjects: the more inconspicuous the better.
Hopefully this guide helps you navigate around permit purchasing for your next shoot!
