Members and guests are encouraged to take photos for personal use while visiting the Arboretum. However, the permit authorizing The North Carolina Arboretum to occupy the National Forest system lands does not give the Arboretum the authority to allow for other commercial activities on the land. Commercial photography only requires a permit if the photography is being used to sell a product or promote a service. Professional photography sessions, such as engagement photos, family portraits, etc.) or photographs of scenery do not require a permit.
Special use permits, granted by the United States Forest Service, are required to conduct any photography considered commercial in nature. Please visit the National Forests in North Carolina website or call the Appalachian Ranger District at 828-689-9694 for more information regarding permitting. Permits generally take 30 days to process. Please plan ahead if you are interested in utilizing the grounds for commercial photography.