Yellowstone Reviews Film & Video Permits

Yellowstone National Park is once again reminding film and video crews and news reporters to review permitting regulations before attempting to capture the sounds and imagery of the world’s first national park.  Shooting home photos and videos for fun does not require a permit. However, federal regulations and National Park Service (NPS) policies do place some restrictions on other types of film and media activities due to concerns over visitor safety and impacts on fragile park resources.  As a general rule, a film permit is required for any individual, business, group, organization or institution that realizes a profit from an audio, film, or video produced within Yellowstone National Park.  Commercial still photographers using models, props, special lighting or specialized equipment may require a permit. However, permits are not usually required for news-gathering organizations except for the parking of a satellite truck or production vehicle. Park entrance fees are typically waived for media members gathering news inside the park. Journalists should be prepared to present appropriate identification at park entrance stations or any time upon request of a uniformed NPS employee.