If you enjoy photography, DuPage forest preserves offer scenic landscapes and abundant plants and animals to capture that perfect shot for amateur photographers. All commercial and portrait photography in DuPage forest preserves requires a valid permit in your possession.
Photographers can purchase a photography permit through Visitor Services at 630-871-6419. You may be required to carry proof of insurance and must complete and return the still portrait photography permit application at least five business days in advance. Please allow an additional three to five business days for processing.
Annual permits are valid January – December only. Fees are nonrefundable, and permits are nontransferable. You can change a daily permit one time up to one week in advance for a $5 fee. There's a $5 fee to replace a lost or stolen annual permit.
There may be additional fees for special requests such as permission to use oversized props, to drive to sites other than designated parking areas, or to hold photo shoots at certain locations.
(DuPage resident or studio or agency office in DuPage)
Annual permit
Daily permit
(maximum three hours)
$200
$55
One-time permit
$250 DuPage resident
$350 non-resident
(All other photographers)
Annual permit
One-time permit
(maximum three hours)
$250
$75
For information on filming in DuPage forest preserves, please contact Visitor Services at 630-933-7247.
3S580 Naperville Road
Wheaton, IL 60189
630-933-7200
forest@dupageforest.org
Monday – Friday
8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The Forest Preserve District is committed to making its facilities accessible to all visitors. Contact 630-933-7683 or TTY 800-526-0857.