Most landscape photographers never need a permit. Here's how the rules work on different U.S. public lands. Rules change — confirm with the managing agency before a commercial shoot.
National Park Service: still photography
Under federal law (54 U.S.C. 100905), still photography in National Park Service areas requires a permit only when it:
- takes place in locations where the public is not allowed, or
- uses models, sets or props that are not part of the site's natural or cultural resources or administrative facilities, or
- would cause the park to incur additional administrative costs to monitor the activity.
That means ordinary visitor and most landscape photography — including photography you later sell — needs no permit. Portrait sessions with props, large organized groups and shoots in closed areas may. Commercial filming (video) has its own rules, which have changed in recent years after court decisions; check the park's current guidance.
Drones in national parks
Launching, landing or operating drones is prohibited in NPS units under a 2014 Superintendent's closure (36 CFR 1.5), unless a park has given specific written approval. Flying from outside the boundary over park land can also violate park rules and disturbs wildlife and visitors.
Wilderness areas
Designated wilderness prohibits motorized and mechanized equipment. Drones may not take off or land in wilderness, whichever agency manages it. Commercial photography in wilderness may need a permit.
National forests
Recreational drone use is generally allowed in national forests outside wilderness, following FAA rules. Watch for temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) over wildfires — flying there endangers firefighting aircraft and carries heavy penalties.
National wildlife refuges
Launching or landing drones on refuge lands generally requires a special use permit from the refuge manager. Wildlife disturbance rules apply everywhere on refuges.
BLM land
The Bureau of Land Management generally allows recreational drone flights following FAA rules, except in wilderness, closed areas and some special designations.
State parks
Rules vary widely by state and by park. Many require a permit for drones; some ban them entirely; some require permits for professional photo sessions. Check the park's website.
FAA basics
Recreational flyers must pass the free TRUST test, stay under 400 ft, keep the drone in visual line of sight and check airspace with an FAA-approved app such as B4UFLY. Commercial work needs a Part 107 certificate.
Each national park page and location page on this site includes the relevant permit and drone notes.
About 2 min read · Updated 2026-10-20