Commercial photography and other forms of media in the City's public right-of-way and parks are permitted through the City's Office of Special Events. Please read the information below to determine if you need a permit.

When no permit is required

Recreational photography: informal photos taken for personal use and enjoyment. 

Professional photography: photographer is compensated for their work or charges for their services or final product. Photography may include, but is not limited to: landscape, still life, senior portraits, family portraits, team portraits, birthday or holiday portraits, prom photos, engagement, and wedding photos. This final product is not used to market a good or service; for example, a car commercial. 

Exception: Rock Ledge Ranch (see below)

When a permit is required

Commercial:  photos or videos that advertise or market a product, service, event or destination; real estate photography; non-editorial print or television media; or other commercial uses.

Drone photography: photos or videos taken for any purpose from a drone. Drone photography is ONLY permitted with expressed written consent (see Drone Policy - Currently Under Review)

Rock Ledge Ranch: Use of the site for portrait or professional photography requires a permit. Visit RockLedgeRanch.Com for more information.

    Apply for a Commercial Film/Photography Permit 

     A Commercial Film/Photography Permit is required for any commercial still or video photography in a City of Colorado Springs public right-of-way or City park.

     

    Permits

    Are You Requesting?

    Required Permit

    Application Deadline

    Exclusive use and/or closure of any City street, sidewalk, alley, park trail or open space?

    Commercial Film Permit

    14 days

    Non-exclusive use of any City sidewalk or alleyway?

    Revocable Permit

    7 days

    Use of Unmanned Aerial System (UAS)/Drone Photography?

    Commercial Film Permit

    Expressed written consent required for drone use (see Drone Policy)

    14 days

    Use of Pikes Peak or the Pikes Peak Highway?

    Varies

    Contact sandy.elliott@coloradosprings.gov

    Varies

    Use of private property?

    No permits required if the project has permission from the property owner, and there will be no signage, lighting, noise, high-risk activity or temporary structures

    N/A