Filming and Photo Shoots in Madison Parks

film crew in a park with filming equipment

Image credit: Pop Pop Digital

Madison's parks offer some of the most scenic and diverse backdrops in the city — from lakefront vistas and wooded trails to open fields and vibrant community spaces. These beautiful settings make them ideal locations for filming and photography of all kinds. To ensure that everyone can enjoy these shared spaces safely and equitably, certain types of filming and photo shoots require a permit.

Do I need a Commercial Shoot Park Permit?

A Commercial Shoot Park permit is required if any of the following apply:

It is for a commercial purpose, meaning it is intended for a market audience or to generate income
- Examples of commercial shoots include:
  - Advertising or promotional videos
  - Product or brand photo sessions
  - Television or film productions
It is for a non-commercial purpose and
- Is requesting a reservable park space (shelter or athletic field)
- Is setting up temporary structures
- Is using amplified sound or speakers

A permit is not required if the shoot is not for commercial purposes and does not use reservable spaces, temporary structures, or amplified sound.

Examples of shoots that are not considered for commercial purposes:
- tourism or convention bureaus
- student films or shoots
- private photo shoots (wedding, graduation, etc.)

Application and Fees

Apply for a Commercial Shoot Park permit

Commercial Shoot Park Event permit application

Submit to madisonevents@cityofmadison.com at least 14 days before the shoot.

Fees

Required Fees
Fee	Cost
Full-day shoot	$250
Half-day shoot	$200

Optional Fees
Fee	Cost
Amplification permit	$60 per 6 hours
Temporary Structure permit	$110 per structure
Shelter Reservations	varies
Athletic Space Reservations	varies