Many parks have been affected by winter weather and storms. Please check for alerts before heading out.
Many parks have been affected by winter weather and storms. Please check for alerts before heading out.
Permits are required for commercial filming, professional still photography and educational filming and photography at Washington State Parks.
Professional and commercial filming and/or photography is defined as when individual or organization films and/or takes still photographs in a state park to sell or otherwise use the imagery for economic gain. This includes, but is not limited to, online marketing, print materials (such as postcards and calendars) and promotional materials. These activities require a permit.
Photography activities with no more than two paid staff require a permit. The permit is good for one year from the date of issue at all state parks. The permit excludes photography intended for an advertising a product. Professionals must comply with all Washington State Parks rules regardless of the size of the production.
When an individual or organization wants to film and/or take still photography as part of a formal class for which they are receiving credit from an accredited educational institution and has no intent to sell or otherwise use the products for economic gain. Students may use Washington State Parks for educational film and photography projects. Qualified educational activities are exempt from the permit application fee. However:
An additional drone permit is required if using unmanned aircraft system (UAS) for filming or photography Use the film application to apply for drone use. Drones are considered remote-controlled aircraft. Use of drones in State Parks, whether for filming or other uses, is only allowed with prior permission. Regulations about the use of remote-controlled aircraft are guided by WAC 352-32-130 (4) and (5) and WAC 352.37.170 (3).
To apply for a filming or professional photography permit:
For more information about filming within Washington, please visit the Washington Film Works website and contact the Governor's Office of Regulatory Innovation and Assistance (ORIA).