Recreation Event/Commercial Permits

Commercial Filming and Still Photography Permits

The requirement to obtain a commercial filming permit depends on the type of activity involved.  This is generally based upon whether the activity involves the advertisement of a product or service, creates products for sale or involves the use of actors, models, sets, or props. 

• Contact the Public Lands Center in Salmon at 208-756-5100 for additional information and to learn more about the process of obtaining a filming or photography permit.
• For filming permits, please contact Elly Long at Ellyson.Long@usda.gov.

Group Use/Recreation Event Permits

The Forest receives dozens of requests to conduct recreation events each year.  A group use permit is required for an activity that involves more than 75 total people, either as participants or as spectators.

The Salmon-Challis National Forest has an open season application process for special use recreation events and temporary outfitter and guide permits on National Forest System (NFS) lands.  A special use authorization is required before conducting any type of commercial recreation use of NFS lands.  This open season allows time for review and processing prior to an event.  The open period for applications is determined by the proposed event or start date.  Non-commercial group use and filming special use permits are not subject to open season periods.

The following application periods apply: 

• December 1 through February 15 for summer and fall season activities (those occurring between June I-November 30).
• July 1 through September 15 for winter and spring season activities (those occurring between December I-May 31).

A pre-application meeting with the permit administrator is required to ensure the proposal is an appropriate and authorized use on NFS lands.  If the request is eligible for consideration, the application and supporting documentation must be received by the applicable open season deadline.  Late applications will be held and processed during the next open period.  The permit administrator can verify if your application is complete.  An incomplete application will delay review of your proposal.

For additional information about the application process for recreation events, please contact Jennifer Smith, permit administrator, at 208-756-5158 or Jennifer.Smith6@usda.gov.

Further information about Obtaining a Special Use Permit with the Forest Service and some guidelines for filling out the application, this link is available for assistance.

Outfitters and Guides

The Salmon-Challis National Forest authorizes commercial outfitting for summer, fall, and winter activities on Forest Service lands. These activities include whitewater rafting, jet boating, hunting, fishing, hiking, backpacking, sightseeing, mountaineering, trail riding, and other activities.