Professional Drone Footage at the

Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park

The operation of a UAV/drone is specifically prohibited within all lands and waters administered by the State Park Service unless specifically approved by the Assistant Director, State Park Service in accordance with N.J.A.C. 7:2-1.4(b).

In order to apply for this approval from the state, fill in THIS form and email it to specialusepermit@dep.nj.gov.

Commercial filming is defined as digital or film recording of a visual image or sound recording by a person, business, or other entity for a market audience, such as a documentary, television or feature film, advertisement, or similar project.

Still photography requires an appointment when the activity takes place where or when, members of the public are not allowed, or when the activity uses models, sets or props that are not part of of the natural or cultural resources of the park.

SPECIAL EVENTS

This appointment is a short-term activity that takes place in a park area and:

  • Provides a benefit to an individual, group, or organization rather than the public at large;

  • Requires written authorization and some degree of management control from the TECMP in order to protect park resources and the public interest;

  • Is not prohibited by law or regulation;

Special Event and Filming/Photography appointments are scheduled on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, or after 5:00 PM based on availability once the application is approved. All appointments are subject to cost recovery fees. Filming/Photography permits are also subject to a location fee.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Fill out the form below and someone will respond to your inquiry within 24-28 hours (Tuesday-Saturday). If your request is approved, an invoice will be emailed to the contact person on the application. Additional fees may be charged based on the size and complexity of your permit.

Your application must be received in sufficient time for evaluation by the director before the start date for your activity.

Requests which involve complex logistics or coordination which other visitor activities will require additional time to process.

Your request will be evaluated on the basis of the information in your application.

FEES:

Motion Pictures/Videos

1-3 people, camera and tripod: $300.00/2hrs — $100/every additional hour

Still Photography

1-3 people, camera and tripod: $300.00/2hrs — $100/every additional hour