FILM Act

The FILM Act streamlines rules for filming and photography in National Parks and other federal lands. It eliminates permit requirements for small groups (fewer than 6 people) and activities incidental to permitted events like weddings, while creating a quick "de minimis use authorization" for groups of 6-8 people that meet specific resource protection standards. For larger productions, the bill establishes a fee structure based on crew size, equipment, and duration, with proceeds returning to the parks. The law includes specific requirements to protect natural resources, prevent visitor disruption, and prohibit staging equipment (while allowing handheld gear like tripods). This directly affects filmmakers, photographers, and park visitors by creating clearer, more accessible rules for media production in federal lands.