ADCNR Commercial Photo and Video Policy

Overview and Acknowledgments

This policy outlines the regulations and requirements for requests for commercial photo and video shoots conducted on properties managed by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), including State Parks, Forever Wild Areas, Wildlife Management Areas, and any other associated public lands or facilities.

The purpose of this policy is to ensure the protection of natural resources, minimize disruption to public access, and establish clear guidelines for commercial operations. Requests for shoots at ADCNR locations are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Approved Requestors will be granted non-exclusive access to designated locations, and entirely at their own risk. Proposed shoots must be in character with high-class standards and conducted in a manner that will not jeopardize the integrity of public resources. Recordings that could embarrass or disparage ADCNR, the State of Alabama, its officials, or employees, are prohibited. At the conclusion of a shoot, the Requestor must timely vacate the ADCNR location and restore the area in as good order and condition as when received.

I. Definition of Commercial Photo or Video Shoot/Production

For the purposes of this policy, a "commercial photo or video shoot/production" is defined as any photography or videography activity conducted on ADCNR property where the resulting images or footage are intended for one or more of the following:

Financial gain or commercial purpose: This includes, but is not limited to, advertising, marketing, product promotion, feature films, television shows, documentaries (unless otherwise exempt by specific agreement), music videos, commercials, corporate videos, stock photography/videography, or any content created for resale or licensing.
Public distribution with promotional intent: This includes, but is not limited to, content for websites, social media channels, or publications that directly or indirectly promote a business, product, service, or brand.
Professional services for compensation: This includes photographers or videographers hired by individuals or entities to create images or footage for any of the purposes listed above, even if the primary subject is personal (e.g., professional wedding photography with commercial intent, though specific exceptions may apply for limited, personal-use photography as defined by individual park policies).
Requiring specialized equipment or exclusive use: Activities involving large or small crews, extensive equipment (e.g., drones, specialized lighting, props, sets), or requiring exclusive use of an area, regardless of the intended use of the content.

Exclusions: This policy generally does not apply to:

Personal, non-commercial photography or videography by visitors for their own enjoyment and non-commercial social media sharing.
Credentialed news media covering legitimate news events, though advance notice and coordination with ADCNR Communications and Marketing Office is strongly encouraged
Amateur photography for ADCNR-sponsored contests (e.g., Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest), subject to the specific rules of such contests.

II. Permitting and Coordination Requirements

All commercial photo and video shoots/productions on ADCNR properties must obtain the necessary permits and fulfill all associated requirements.

A. Initial Contact with the Alabama Entertainment Office: For all commercial film and large-scale video productions, the first point of contact must be the Alabama Entertainment Office. The Alabama Entertainment Office serves as a central liaison for productions seeking to film in the state and can assist in navigating various state and local permitting processes. They can be reached via their official website or direct contact information. AlabamaFilm.org or to register with the film office, click here.

B. ADCNR Coordination and Specific Property Permits: In addition to contacting the Alabama Entertainment Office, all commercial photo and video shoots/productions on ADCNR properties must coordinate directly with ADCNR’s Director of Communications at 334-242-3152 or via e-mail to Director Billy Pope.

It is strongly recommended that all inquiries and permit applications be submitted well in advance of the proposed shoot date (A minimum of 30 days is advised, with more complex projects requiring additional lead time) to allow for proper review and processing.

III. Required Documentation and Compliance

To be considered for a commercial photo or video permit, applicants will be required to provide, at a minimum, the following:

A. Proof of Proper Insurance: Applicants must provide proof of comprehensive general liability insurance. The specific coverage limits will be determined based on the scope and nature of the production, but a minimum of $1,000,000 in general liability coverage is typically required. The State of Alabama and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources must be named as additional insureds on the certificate of insurance. Productions involving special effects or higher-risk activities may require additional liability coverage. Workers' Compensation insurance, in compliance with Alabama state laws, is also required if the production employs individuals.

B. Indemnification: Requestor, on its own behalf, as well as that of its employees and agents, agrees to defend, indemnify, release, and hold harmless ADCNR, its officials, employees, agents, representatives, and volunteers, from and against any and all claims, losses, liabilities, actions, suits or demands, costs or expenses, including attorney fees, arising from or in connection with the use of ADCNR location.

C. Proper Licenses and Permits: Applicants must demonstrate that they possess all necessary business licenses and permits required to operate commercially in the State of Alabama and, if applicable, the specific county or municipality where the shoot will occur. This may include, but is not limited to:

Registration with Alabama’s office of the Secretary of State: Required for most businesses operating in Alabama.
Local Business Licenses: Depending on the location, local city or county business licenses may be required.
Drone Permits/Certifications: If drones are intended for use, operators must provide proof of FAA certification (Part 107 for commercial drone operations) and adhere to all FAA regulations, as well as any specific ADCNR drone policies. Use of drones over certain sensitive areas (e.g., nesting sites, critical habitats, public use areas) may be restricted or prohibited.
ADCNR Coordination, Waivers, and Specific Property Permits.

D. Detailed Production Plan: Applicants will be required to submit to ADCNR a detailed production plan that includes:

Scope of Project: A brief description of the project and its purpose.
Dates and Times: Proposed dates and times for the shoot, including setup and breakdown.
Locations: Specific areas on ADCNR property to be utilized.
Crew Size: Number of personnel involved.
Equipment List: Detailed list of all equipment to be brought on-site.
Vehicles: Number and type of vehicles.
Activities: Description of all planned activities, including any special effects, animal handling, or stunts.
Impact Mitigation: A plan for minimizing environmental impact, noise, disruption to public access, and ensuring public safety. This includes waste disposal and restoration plans.
Emergency Contact Information: Primary contacts for the production.

IV. General Guidelines and Restrictions

Resource Protection: All commercial activities must prioritize the protection of ADCNR's natural and cultural resources. Damage to vegetation, wildlife, or facilities is strictly prohibited.
Public Safety and Access: Productions must not impede public access to recreational areas or create safety hazards for visitors.
Wildlife Disturbance: Activities that disturb wildlife are prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, harassment, feeding, or altering natural behaviors.
Leave No Trace: All trash, equipment, and debris must be removed from the property upon completion of the shoot.
Designated Areas: Commercial activities may be restricted to designated areas.
Hours of Operation: Shoots must generally occur during regular park/property operating hours unless otherwise approved.
Compliance with Regulations: All state and federal laws, as well as ADCNR regulations and property-specific rules, must be strictly followed.
Supervision: ADCNR staff may be required to monitor the production on-site at the applicant's expense.

V. Enforcement

Failure to adhere to this policy, including conducting commercial photo or video shoots without a proper permit, misrepresenting the nature of the shoot, or violating permit conditions, may result in:

Immediate cessation of activities.
Forfeiture of fees.
Fines and penalties.
Future denial of permits.
Legal action.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources reserves the right to deny any permit application or revoke an existing permit at any time if it determines that the proposed or ongoing activity would negatively impact DCNR operations, resources, or public safety or violate established policies.

For further information and to initiate the permitting process, please get in touch with the Alabama Entertainment Office and the relevant ADCNR Division or property manager.