BLM Filming Fees
Processing/Monitoring and Rental fees must be paid before filming is permitted on public land. Generally, it is easiest to submit all fees with the application. Processing fees are non-refundable, but monitoring and rental fees will be refunded if the application is not approved.
PROCESSING AND MONITORING FEES vary depending on the estimated BLM work hours required to process the application and to monitor filming and reclamation. In most cases, minimal impact filming at popular locations requires Category 1 fees. These are generally paid with the application after coordination with the local BLM contact.
The fees are based on the 2025 Cost Recovery Fee Schedule
| Category | BLM Work Hours | 2025 Processing/Monitoring Fees |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0 to 8 | $278 |
| 2 | 8 to 24 | $1,113 |
| 3 | 24 to 40 | $2,227 |
| 4 | 40 to 64 | $3,618 |
| 5 | Varies Depending on agreement | As specified in the agreement |
| 6 | 64+ | Full reimbursement for actual costs |
RENTAL FEES vary per state and are generally established by statewide appraisals. The following schedules are from the three states that process the most BLM filming permits:
- California Rental Schedule
-
People (Motion Picture Video) Cost 1 to 30 $250/day 31 to 60 $500/day Over 60 $600/day People (Still Photography) Cost 1 to 10 $100/day 11 to 30 $150/day Over 30 $250/day
- Utah Rental Schedule
-
People (Motion Picture/Video) Cost 1 to 30 $250/day 31 to 60 $500/day Over 60 $600/day People (Still Photography) Cost 1 to 10 $100/day 11 to 30 $150/day Over 30 $250/day
- Nevada Rental Schedule
-
People (Motion Picture/Video) Cost 1 to 5, more than just Camera and tripod $80/location/day 6 to 10 $159/location/day 11 to 30 $372//location/day 31 to 50 $500//location/day Over 60 $600/location/day People (Still Photography) Cost 1 to 5, more than just a camera and tripod $100/day 6 to 10 $106/day 11 to 20 $212/day 21 to 30 $150/day Over 30 $250/day
For states that are not listed above, please contact the local BLM office to inquire about their state’s rental rate.
INSURANCE: All applications must include a certificate of insurance naming the United States Department of the Interior - BLM as co-insured. Contact the appropriate BLM Field Office for specific dollar amount.
BONDING: Permittees may be required to provide cash bonds to assure reclamation of sets or sensitive locations.