Easier Permits for Forest Film Shoots? Explore Act Delivers
Published Date: 3/19/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting March 19, 2026, the Forest Service is updating its rules for filming and photography on National Forest lands to match the new EXPLORE Act. These changes mainly fix wording and add legal references, so folks applying for permits will see clearer rules but no new fees or big changes. If you film or take photos in the forest, this update makes the process smoother and more official.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 2 costs, 1 mixed.
Three-Tier Permit Rules for Filming
Starting March 19, 2026, filming and still-photography on National Forest System lands follow three tiers: activities by not more than five individuals that meet the listed requirements need no authorization or fee; activities by 6–8 individuals may require a de minimis use authorization for which no fee may be charged; activities involving more than eight individuals or that fail to meet the listed requirements may require a special use permit and a reasonable fee.
E-Permitting and Automated Approvals
The Forest Service must let the public apply for and obtain de minimis use authorizations (for 6–8 individuals) through a public website and in person at local field offices, including automated approval of qualifying web applications and immediate issuance of qualifying in-person applications.
Activity Conduct Rules You Must Meet
To qualify for permit-free or de minimis treatment, filming or still photography must meet eight requirements including: not impeding other visitors, occurring where the public is allowed, not requiring exclusive site use, avoiding very high visitation areas, using only equipment carried by participants (tripods and handheld lighting allowed), complying with visitor rules, not likely to cause additional Forest Service administrative costs, and complying with Federal, State, and local laws (including unmanned aerial equipment laws).
When Filming Can Be Denied to Protect Resources
The authorized officer must not authorize filming or still photography if it is likely to cause resource damage, create an unreasonable disruption of public use and enjoyment, or pose a health or safety risk to the public.
Scope Clarified: 'Content Creation' Treated Same
The rule adds definitions treating any video, still photograph, or audio recording for commercial or noncommercial 'content creation' as a filming or still photography activity regardless of distribution platform, and replaces separate definitions for 'commercial filming' and 'still photography' with a combined definition (excluding broadcasting breaking news).
No Significant Economic Impact on Small Entities
The Department determined under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that this final rule will not have any direct effect on small entities, will not impose recordkeeping requirements on them, and will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-06547 — Black Pine Gold Project, Cassia and Oneida Counties, Idaho
The Forest Service is starting a 30-day public comment period for the Black Pine Gold Project, a plan to mine gold and silver in Idaho’s Sawtooth National Forest and nearby lands. This project affects local communities, the environment, and federal land rules, with a full review expected by 2028. Your feedback can help shape how mining happens and protect the area’s future.
2026-06166 — Information Collection; Commercial Use of the Woodsy Owl Symbol
The Forest Service is asking for your thoughts on renewing the rules for using the Woodsy Owl symbol in business. If you want to use this famous forest friend’s image, you’ll need to follow updated info collection rules by June 1, 2026. This keeps the symbol safe and ensures everyone plays fair, with no new fees but a fresh paperwork check.
2026-06139 — Information Collection: Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Financial Assistance to Facilities That Purchase and Process Byproducts for Ecosystem Restoration (ALN 10.725) Wood Products Infrastructure Assistance (WPIA)
The USDA Forest Service is keeping a program that helps facilities buy and process leftover wood to restore forests. They’re asking for public comments by June 1, 2026, but aren’t changing the rules right now. This program supports jobs and healthy ecosystems by turning wood waste into useful products.
2026-05767 — Definition of a Ski Area
The Forest Service updated the official definition of a ski area to better match the law and make managing permits easier for both the agency and ski area operators. This change affects anyone running or planning ski areas on National Forest lands and takes effect April 24, 2026. It helps keep skiing and snow sports as the main focus while allowing some other fun activities without extra hassle or fees.
2026-05815 — Information Collection; Forest Industries and Logging Operations Data Collection Systems
The Forest Service wants to keep collecting info about forest industries and logging without changing the current system. If you’re involved in forestry or logging, your input matters! You’ve got until May 26, 2026, to share your thoughts—no extra costs or new rules, just a smooth extension.
2026-05670 — Information Collection; Management of Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros
The Forest Service wants your thoughts on a new way to collect info about managing wild horses and burros roaming free on public lands. This affects ranchers, wildlife lovers, and anyone interested in these animals. You’ve got until May 26, 2026, to share your ideas—no cost to comment, just a chance to help shape how these iconic animals are cared for!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-05452 — Announcement of Final Regulatory Determinations for Contaminants on the Fifth Drinking Water Contaminant Candidate List
The EPA decided not to regulate nine specific contaminants found in drinking water, meaning no new rules or costs for water providers right now. This affects public water systems and keeps your tap water safe without extra changes. These decisions are official as of March 19, 2026, and come from a law that checks water safety every five years.
Next: 2026-05459 — Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act Regulations Statutory Updates
The Small Business Administration is updating its rules to match a new law that changes how fraud claims are handled. The name of the process is changing to "Administrative False Claims," and the minimum claim amount jumps from $150,000 to $1 million. These updates kick in on May 4, 2026, and could affect businesses involved in government contracts or grants.
Take It Personal
Get Your Personalized Policy View
Start a Free Government Policy Watch to see how policy affects your household, then upgrade to PRIA Full Coverage for year-round monitoring.
Already have an account? Sign in