Permits
Generally, few permits are needed for filming in the Albuquerque area. Permits are usually required for production on federal, state and tribal lands. Permits are required for production on city property, sensitive areas such as historical sites and on public streets/sidewalks including county roads and state highways. For more complete information regarding permitting, please contact the Albuquerque Film Office at 505-768-3283.
City of Albuquerque
The City of Albuquerque's permitting process has been designed for activities that affect the public's right of way or the City's ability to provide emergency services to the public.
It is up to the applicant to conform to the current laws
and requirements, ensure that the production company has all the necessary
permits and remains in compliance throughout filming. Failure to comply
with the requirements suggested by City departments can result in a shut
down of filming with possible legal ramifications.
Bureau of Land Management & U.S. Forest Service
The BLM Field Office will issue "minimum impact" permits for production purposes. Permits may be issued at the BLM Field Office after it has been determined that the filming activity will have a minimum impact on public land. A reasonable amount of time is needed to process the permit; the rule of thumb is two weeks.
Albuquerque BLM Field Office
505-761-8700, fax 505-761-8911. The local Forest Ranger District Office
grants permits. The permit process includes completing an application,
obtaining standard liability insurance coverage and providing a summary
of the shoot. A two-week review period is requested. Forest fire restrictions
may apply.
U.S. Forest Service
Cibola National Forest: 505-346-3900
Magdalena Ranger District: 505-854-2281
Mountainair Ranger District: 505-847-2990
Sandia Ranger District: 505-281-3304
Mt. Taylor Ranger District: 505-287-8833
National Parks
Each individual Park Superintendent issues National Park Service Permits. A two-week application-reviewing period is requested. The application process entails a $100 non-refundable application fee, a possible performance bond (depending on the extent of the shoot) and a minimum $100 per day location fee. Other costs may include Park Rangers fees to monitor production.
Petroglyph National Monument
505-899-0205, fax 505-899-0207
Salinas Pueblos Missions
505-847-2585 ext. 21, fax 505-847-2441
State Parks
All State Parks require a Special Use Permit and at least a two-week notice. The minimum cost for a Special Use Permit is $15 and increases depending on the scope and needs of the project. Permits can be issued by the Park Superintendent but may be referred to the State office, depending on the scope of the project.
Coronado Campground
Bernalillo: 505-980-8256
Rio Grande Nature Center
Albuquerque: 505-344-7240
Manzano Mountains State Park
Mountainair: 505-847-2820
State Monuments
The intent of the permit system for State Monuments is to ensure that the historic and natural features are protected and visitor use is unimpeded. A Special Use Permit and a thirty-day notice (preferred) are required for any filming intended for public viewing or commercial advertising. The administrative non-refundable fee is $50. Still photography is $100 per day and film and video is $250 per day.
Coronado State Monument
Bernalillo: 505-867-5351