FILM INYO

Filming activities that may require a permit include the use of motion picture, videotaping, sound recording, or other moving image or audio recording equipment on public lands that involve the use of actors, models, sets, and/or props.

Public land users do not require a permit for short-term filming activities unless the activity would: cause appreciable damage or disturbance to the public lands, their resources, or improvements, or is prohibited by closure of the lands to such activities.

Still Photography:  Still photography activities that require a permit are those that
use models, sets, or props that are not part of the site’s natural or cultural resources or administrative facilities (portrait subjects such as wedding parties or high school graduates are not considered models), or would: take place where members of the public are generally not allowed, or would require onsite management and oversight for resource protection or to minimize visitor conflict.

Filming or still photography will not be permitted if it is determined that: There is likelihood of resource damage or public health and safety risks that cannot be mitigated, or there would be an unreasonable disruption of the public’s use and enjoyment of the site (beyond short-term interruption).

To determine where to obtain your permit, you need to consider that Inyo County has multiple agencies owning the land, both public and private. Each agency is responsible for authorizing filming on the public lands within their jurisdiction, and each location has distinct conditions to adhere to. Begin by reaching out to the Inyo County Film Commission for clarification. After that, the Film Commissioner will assist you in contacting the appropriate land management agency, county authorities, or private landowners for any inquiries related to filming on lands within Inyo County.