Photographers and Family Portraits
Any portrait photography session (school photos, family portraits, engagement photos, maternity photos, etc.) requires a permit and must be arranged in advance. Each individual session requires a permit. Multi-session permits where photographers coordinate mini-sessions for a half or full day will no longer be permitted due to limited parking/capacity. Permits are issued for up to 10 people and 2 cars, and there is a $50 application fee. Sessions with more than two cars will be assessed additional cost recovery fees.
The park is currently permitting portrait photography mornings between sunrise and 10:00 am and evenings from 4:30 pm to sunset as parking/capacity is limited during peak visiting hours. For questions or to check if dates/times are available for photo sessions call 203-834-1896 x13 or e-mail us. Feel free to reach out to check availability prior to filling out the application form.
Link to Weir Farm NHP Photography Session Permit Application
Permits
A special use permit is required for activities that provide a benefit to an individual, group, or organization rather than the public at large and that require some degree of management from the National Park Service to protect park resources and the public interest.
Weir Farm National Historical Park issues permits for a variety of special activities, including portrait photography sessions. The process is simple and the permit coordinator can be reached at 203-834-1896 ext. 13 or e-mail us for questions. Please contact the permit coordinator for more information or fill out the application below. The fee for a special use permit application is $50 and there may be additional cost recovery fees depending on the activity. Please note that the park does not permit weddings or similar events.
A Special Use Permit may be required for certain activities such as political events, public assemblies, demonstrations, the distribution of literature, church services and other activities commonly referred to as "First Amendment" activities. By law, the NPS has established places in the park where First Amendment activities can be accommodated. Weir Farm NHP's First Amendment sites are identified in the Superintendent's Compendium. Individuals and small groups (fewer than 25 people) do not need a permit for First Amendment activities in the designated First Amendment areas within the park. Groups larger than 25 people must obtain a permit, but are not required to pay an application fee.
How To Apply for a Special Use Permit or Portrait Photography Permit
Complete application and mail to Kristin Lessard at the Park address found on the first page of the application or email to e-mail us. Allow AT LEAST 5 business days for processing (10 business days for First Amendment requests) of applications.
Completed application must be accompanied by an application fee in the form of a personal check, cashiers check or money order in the amount of $50.00 made payable to National Park Service. Please do not make checks out to Weir Farm National Historical Park. Application and administrative charges are non-refundable. A non-refundable processing fee should accompany the application unless the requested use is an exercise of a First Amendment right. Your permit may require the payment of cost recovery charges and proof of liability insurance naming the United States of America as also insured.
Link to Weir Farm NHP Photography Session Permit Application
Link to Weir Farm NHP General Special Use Permit Application Form (for any other type of permit request)
Permits are required for commercial filming or photography. Those interested in commercial filming activities on land managed by the National Park Service are encouraged to contact the park prior to filling out an application. More information about commercial filming in national parks can be found by visiting https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/news/commercial-film-and-photo-permits.htm.
Reservations
Tours of the Weir House will be filled by same-day registration only, first-come, first-served. Registration will be managed at the Burlingham House Visitor Center. For more information read the section on Guided Tours. Groups of 8 or more can make advance reservations for a group tour by calling 203-834-1896 ext.11.
