Photography And Video Media Permit

Photography and Video Media Permits are required for all commercial photography/video activities. Photography and Video Media Permits are NOT required for personal use, regular news media activities, and those conducted entirely on private property with no impact on parking or traffic flow. Personal Photography or filming at City Parks, the Niguel Botanical Preserve, trails, or open space areas do not require a permit. (Examples: wedding photos, engagement photos, family photos, graduations).

Student Permit Exemption: Any student applicant who submits a letter written on school letterhead by a school administrator or instructor stating that the applicant is currently enrolled in a recognized United States educational institution and that the photography and video media is not for commercial release is exempt from any permit fees established pursuant to the Municipal Code.

Other Permit Exemptions: Charitable photography and video media produced by City of Laguna Niguel nonprofit organizations, and news media, are exempt from any permit fees established pursuant to the Municipal Code.

Permits are not issued for County, School District, or other public property not owned by the City of Laguna Niguel. You must contact those agencies directly for use and permitting.

When do I need a Photography and Video Media Permit?

Anyone engaged in commercial (for-profit or sales-related) photography or videography on City property, whether still, motion picture, digital, for print, TV, theatres, or the Internet, is required to complete a Photography and Video Media Permit Application. This requirement applies under any of the following circumstances:

• The activity restricts/prevents public access to an area or takes place in a location not ordinarily open to the public; or
• The activity uses a model, constructed set, lighting rig, or large props requiring setup; or
• The image(s) are used to advertise a business or promote/sell a product, print, or service; or
• The City would incur additional administrative costs to monitor the activity.

Commercial Video Media: "Commercial Video Media" refers to the filming or recording of moving images – via film, electronic, magnetic, digital, or other formats- conducted by individuals, businesses, or entities for a market audience with the intent to generate income. Examples include, but are not limited to, feature films, videography, monetization of social media, and documentaries. Commercial filming may also include the advertisement of a product or service, or the use of actors, models, sets, or props.

Commercial Photography: “Commercial Photography” refers to photography for sale or profit aside from filming for motion pictures or television. Such photography may be permitted after submission of appropriate application and proof of required insurance coverage. Commercial photography permits are handled in the same manner as commercial motion picture, video, and television photography.

When is a permit NOT required for Personal Photography and Video Media?

Photography or Video Media for personal purposes is encouraged to enhance visitor enjoyment and extend the benefits and influences of recreational experiences.

Personal photography or Video Media by park visitors, whether still, motion picture, or video, is allowed without a permit only under the following circumstances:

• All park rules and regulations must be adhered to.
• No reserving or blocking off space, or interference with other park visitors’ use or enjoyment of the park.
• No use of professional props and/or sets, professional actors, models, or specialized or large motorized equipment.
• Photography or Video Media takes place during regular park operating hours.

What is needed to obtain a Photography and Video Media Permit?

The permitting process and items needed vary depending on the proposed location and type of filming. Please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at (949) 425-5100 or email before applying to discuss the process and application fee. (New fee rates will take effect mid-2026, replacing the current fees)

• Photography Permit: $150 per day (pending approval of permit application)
• Video Media Permit: $300 per day
• *Refundable Deposit as a Credit Card held on file: $300 per day

* Per permit

Photography and Video Media Permit Application Form

A completed application (PDF) should be submitted to Crown Valley Community Center, Attention: Administrative Secretary, at least twenty (20) days prior to the requested date. An application is not considered complete until it is completely filled out and submitted with:

• All necessary signatures.
• Certificate of Insurance along with the "Additional Insured Endorsement."
• Production/Site Plan, if applicable.
• Traffic/Parking, if applicable.
• Property owner's signatures, agreement, and/or HOA approval letter, if applicable.
• Paid Photography and Video Media Application Fee and Deposit.

Insurance Requirements 

Before a permit is issued, a Certificate of Insurance along with the "Additional Insured Endorsement" must be submitted. Certificate of Insurance limits and requirements are:

• Minimum $1,000,000 per occurrence per $2,000,000 General Liability Limit
• Minimum $1,000,000 combined single limit Auto Liability
• Minimum statutory limits Workers’ Compensation / Employer’s Liability $1,000,000 per accident or disease with waiver of subrogation endorsement in favor of the City of Laguna Niguel
• City of Laguna Niguel and its Council members, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers named as Additional Insured
• Sample - "Certificate of Insurance and Endorsements (PDF)" 

Are there any specific requirements for the use of the Niguel Botanical Preserve?

The Niguel Botanical Preserve is home to more than 2,000 plant species and offers 4 miles of walking trails on 18 acres of land. For this reason, there are special considerations given when approving permits for requested use in this space. For more information, please CLICK HERE to review the Niguel Botanical Preserve Photography and Video Media Guidelines.