Filming in Cities and Counties
Most Idaho cities and counties do not have established film permits and will consider any filming project as a special event. Contacting a city office, city or county police and/or the local Chamber of Commerce will help smooth your path. The Idaho Film Office is your best source for local contacts and phone numbers.
Filming on Public Lands
Like any other state with public land, which is basically every
state, permits are required by the U. S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land
Management, the National Park Service and other federal government
agencies. Idaho is blessed with over 82,000 square miles of incredibly diverse landscapes, much of which is managed by federal and state land management agencies. Included are rock formations, lava flows, sand dunes, craters and, of course, mountains, lakes and rivers. Fees vary according to the number of people involved in the
production and some areas may require an environmental review. Land
management agency web sites are listed on the Links page or you can
contact the Idaho Film Office for specific agency information.
Filming on Idaho Highways
State highways and interstates are the responsibility of the Idaho Transportation Department, while city and county roads will fall under the appropriate city or county highway district. The Idaho Film Office can guide you to the right office for your specific location. When traffic control is desired, arrangements must be made with the district engineer. Please don't hesitate to contact the Idaho Film Office, we're happy to assist you.
Trip Permits, Vehicle Registration & Oversize Truck Permits
Either a trip permit or vehicle registration is required for all commercial trucks entering Idaho. Trip permits can be purchased at vending stations throughout the state, at ports of entry and through the Idaho Transportation Department. Each permit is for a 96-hour period and multiples can be purchased at one time. Fees vary depending on the size and weight of the truck.
Alternatively, it may be more cost effective to license vehicles in Idaho for productions in the state longer than one week. Registration fees vary based on the vehicle gross weight and are pro-rated according to the month purchased.
Start with Idaho Transportation Department's Commercial Vehicles Division web site, or call the most appropriate number for your needs:
Ports of Entry: 208 334-8688
Motor Vehicle Services: 208 334-8622
Overlegal Permits. 208 334-8420
or E-mail: CVS@itd.idaho.gov
Or, as always, ask for assistance from the Idaho Film Office.