Andrew Molera State Park: SPECIAL EVENTS/FILMING
Special Event Permits
The Big Sur Sector permits “elopement” style ceremonies at this park with an approved Special Event Permit. Elopements are suitable for those wishing to have a hike-in event of ten (10) people or less) in a rustic, outdoors location. There are no exclusive access sites at this park. Receptions and/or catered events are not permitted at this park. Seating is not available.
You may apply for an “elopement” permit up to six (6) months in advance. Applications for "elopements" received forty-fix (45) days or less in advance of the event date are subject to additional fees and restrictions. Applications received twenty-one (21) days or less in advance of the event date will not be considered.
The parking lot may be suitable for race start/finish areas or for aid-station locations with the approval of a Large Event/Commercial – Special Event Permit. Large/Commercial Event applications must be received at least sixty (60) days in advance of the event date in order to be considered.
Events/elopements are not permitted/allowed on any weekend dates (Friday-Sunday) the Friday prior to Memorial Day through Labor Day or on holiday weekend dates.
Small, reoccuring hiking tours or photography workshops conducted by non-profit or for-profit entities may occur with the approval of an Annual Special Event Permit. Applications for Annual permits received forty-five (45) days or less in advance of the event date are subject to additional fees and restrictions. Applications received twenty-one (21) days or less in advance of the first event/tour date may not be considered.
Anyone wishing to hold their elopement or hiking/photography tour at the beach in this park, please note the following: You cannot drive to the beach at this park. The hike to the beach is via a one (1) mile trail with negligible elevation gain. Additionally, you must cross a narrow, seasonal footbridge over the Big Sur River to reach the trail to the beach. This footbridge is not in place October through mid-June; therefore, reaching some areas of the park, including the beach, during this time would require your group to cross through the river. River crossings may be prohibited during rain or if the river is running high and/or fast.
Contact the Special Event Permit Office at BigSurEvents@parks.ca.gov or call 831-667-0507 to obtain an Elopement Special Event Information Packet, check calender availability, obtain Large Event permit information, or to apply for a Special Event Permit.
Motion Picture and Still Photography Permits
All film shoots at Andrew Molera State Park and all other California State Parks are required to have a valid film permit issued by the California Film Commission (CFC). The term “film shoot” refers to both motion picture and still photography shoots. The term “film” refers to both analog (actual physical film) and digital media.
The Big Sur Sector permits “Simple” shoots on Monday-Thursday, non-holiday dates. “Complex” shoots are only permitted on Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday non-holiday dates. Film shoots are not permitted on weekends (Friday-Sunday) or on holiday dates. Additionally, film shoots may not interfere with any park programs or previously scheduled events.
"Styled shoots" or photography workshops do not qualify for a film permit and must obtain an a Special Event Permit. Large/Commercial and/or Annual Special Event Permit terms and conditions apply. See the Special Event Permit section above for more information.
Applications must be received at least two (2) weeks prior to first shoot date in order to be considered by the Big Sur Sector. Applications can be submitted online at the CFC’s website at www.film.ca.gov.
It is important for film makers and producers to note that RESTRICTION OF PUBLIC ACCESS IS PROHIBITED. Closed sets, nudity, pornography, profanity, loud music, or any obscene activities are strictly prohibited on State Park Property. Additionally, film shoot are not permitted in any closed or roped off areas.
Anyone wishing to conduct a film shoot at the beach in this park, please note the following: You cannot drive to the beach at this park. The hike to the beach is via a one (1) mile trail with negligible elevation gain. Additionally, you must cross a narrow, seasonal footbridge over the Big Sur River to reach the trail to the beach. This footbridge is not in place from October through mid-June; therefore, reaching some areas of the park, including the beach, during this time would require the cast and crew to cross through the river. River crossings may be prohibited during rain or if the river is running high and/or fast.
For more information about filming in a California State Park, including information on fees and the difference between a “complex” and “simple” shoot, please visit http://film.ca.gov/state-permits/parks-beaches/.
To check availability, contact the Film Permit Office at 831-667-0507 or BigSur.Film@parks.ca.gov.
To apply for a film permit with the CFC, please visit www.film.ca.gov
For information regarding filming outside of a State Park in Monterey County, please visit the Monterey County Film Commission's website at www.filmmonterey.org
More information: Film Production in California State Parks
Photograph courtesy of Sharon Pieniak