Any commercial media production in a state park needs a contract: still photography, filming, documentaries, independent and student films, commercials, marketing….
Lead time Applications are taken up to one year and no less than 90 days before the date
Fees TPWD may charge a flat fee or a percentage of gross revenue
| Do you need one? | Any commercial media production in a state park needs a contract: still photography, filming, documentaries, independent and student films, commercials, marketing photos and drone footage. Not required for normal noncommercial visitor photos or for print and broadcast news. |
| Who issues it | Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, State Parks Division; the park superintendent is the main contact. |
| Lead time | Applications are taken up to one year and no less than 90 days before the date; the Texas Film Commission says to allow several weeks and to call the superintendent first. |
| Fees | TPWD may charge a flat fee or a percentage of gross revenue; amounts not published. |
| Insurance | Coverage amount set per request. Certificate from a Texas-licensed insurer naming Texas Parks and Wildlife Department as additional insured, with the event name and date, must be on file before the shoot. |
| Hours and noise | Unreasonably loud noise is against park rules; amplified sound should generally stay under 90 decibels at 15 feet. |
| Students and nonprofits | Student films are explicitly covered and need a contract; no waiver stated. |
| Drones | Drones are allowed in state parks only at the designated area in Martin Dies, Jr. State Park, or for filming with a permit from the park. |
| Also | Large productions may need an emergency management plan. Applications cannot be changed once submitted. Longhorn Cavern State Park books directly through its operator. |
From the official pages: TPWD - Special events, media productions and short-term concessions ↗︎ · TPWD - Park rules ↗︎ · TPWD - Park requests FAQ ↗︎. Rules and fees change; confirm with the office before you shoot. Not legal advice.