A guide to film/photo shoots at Parks Canada

This will ensure sufficient time to review, issue any necessary permits and avoid delays to your project. It is strongly advised to submit your registration at least 20 business days before your intended shoot. Northern and remote locations often require several months' notice “(about 90 business days)”.

You may need permission from other parties to conduct a shoot in certain Parks Canada places. For instance, you may require authorizations from municipalities, Indigenous organisations or from residents or business owners/operators within a park or historic site.

We want to help you showcase Parks Canada places at their best. To help with your planning, we can suggest travel tips, best dates and times to avoid crowds, locations for a great view and unique story angles. Be sure to also check in with us when you arrive.

This means visiting during regular operational hours, staying on established trails and respecting signage. Seasonal closures, restrictions and any temporary closures are posted on the website.

Drones present safety risks and can be disruptive to wildlife and visitors. Parks Canada strictly limits drone use. Ask us about available aerial stock footage.

Getting that perfect shot may be tempting, but you can be fined for approaching or attempting to lure or feed an animal. Not to mention it is dangerous for you and the animal. Use a tripod and a telephoto lens and you will be rewarded with views of wildlife behaving naturally. Be sure to follow other wildlife guidelines, such as methods of storing food and other items that can attract wildlife.

Ensure that your activities do not impede visitors, staff, workers, community residents or traditional users. Your gear should be well packed, mobile and must not block access or create tripping hazards. Ask politely before filming or photographing anyone. Keep noise and artificial light to a minimum, especially at night.

Help us protect Canada's heritage places by avoiding any activities that could cause damage and by picking up after yourself. Never move or handle historic objects or install anything on structures or in the natural environment.

Laws vary between provinces and territories, and Parks Canada locations have their own regulations. It is your responsibility to inform yourself of all laws and regulations that may apply to you, such as those related to driving, alcohol, firearms, etc. and prohibited activities such as hunting, off-road vehicles and certain high-risk sports.

At times, you may see visitors breaking Parks Canada regulations (e.g., cliff jumping, hiking off trail, allowing dogs off leash, feeding wildlife). Help us promote responsible behaviour by keeping such scenes out of your production and by reporting incidents to Parks Canada staff.