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Aperture
US City

Minneapolis

Minneapolis splits permitting between the city and the Park Board, and the Park Board wants an unusually high $1,500,000 in coverage.

By Joel Kelly Verified Jun 28, 2026 2 sources
Permit: conditional

Shoot decision

Depends on setup

A permit is required for filming on city property, the public right of way, or park property; park shoots go through the Park Board.

Permit

Conditional

Issuer: City of Minneapolis (Business Licensing) for city property and right of way; the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board for park property

Cost: Base permit fee not published on the official page; a $35 change-order fee applies to modifying an existing park permit

Processing: Submit at least 10 days ahead

A permit is required for filming on city property, the public right of way, or park property; park shoots go through the Park Board. Park-property shoots require a certificate of insurance for $1,500,000 general liability naming the Park Board as additional insured.

Official permit page

Drone / airspace

Commercial drone work requires FAA Part 107; drone use on park land needs a separate Park Board permit and its own insurance

Local rules sit on top of FAA airspace rules. For Part 107 and drone law, see Drone Authority.

Street / public space

Yes: you can photograph what is visible from public space in the US

Private property sets its own rules regardless of city law.

Practical notes

  • Park property and city streets are two separate permitting authorities.
  • Filming inside City Hall requires a separate Municipal Building Commission agreement.

Guidance, not legal advice

Rules change and enforcement varies. Confirm with the issuing authority before you shoot. Drone law depth lives at Drone Authority.

Drone Authority

Check the flight side

City photo permits do not settle airspace. Drone Authority covers FAA rules, local restrictions, and LAANC checks.

Field kit

Low-friction kit for city rules

Match more field gearCheck field deals

Product links may earn a commission at no cost to you. Verify the rules first, then buy only what keeps the shoot practical.

Plan the city shoot

Sources

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