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Policy for Still Photography Projects

At the Marston House Museum & Gardens

Permit Requirement
A Site Photography Permit is required when still photography involves the use of models, professional crews, set dressings, or props; when it involves product or service advertisement, including professional portfolios or stock for sale; when it is for wedding, family, graduation, maternity, and other types of photography sessions with a photographer and subject models; or when it could result in damage to park resources or disruption of visitor use. A permit is also required if the photographer wants to shoot in areas not open to the public, or before or after normal visitation hours. Email Save Our Heritage Organisation (SOHO) at SOHOsandiego@aol.com if you are uncertain whether your project requires a permit.

To verify availability, and secure your appointment on the calendar, please submit your application at least two weeks prior to your prospective photography session.

Possible Supplementary Requirements

  • A pre-production site visit with a representative from the production company
  • Cooperation with a SOHO on-site supervisor for large or complex shoots
  • Additional insurance certificates may be required.

Media
Frequently there are opportunities for news organizations to focus on Marston House Museum & Gardens programs, or increase public awareness of property-specific issues. Photography related to these stories must be coordinated and planned in advance. A Site Photography Permit will be issued if it is determined that the property would benefit from the increased public awareness. Contact SOHO to discuss your project.

Fees
SOHO collects two fees; the hourly Site Photography Permit fee, and the Security Deposit. The amount of the security deposit will vary depending on the size and complexity of your permit.

Hourly Site Photography Permit Rates
(Must be pre-scheduled)
$50 per hour
$275 full day (6 hours maximum)

Security Deposit fees are determined by the following criteria:

  1. Type of shoot (wedding, editorial, commercial, stock, etc.)
  2. Duration of shoot
  3. Size of the crew
  4. Amount of equipment and complexity of setup used
  5. Location and amount of space used on the property

Applying for a permit

  • Permit applications are available online HERE (2-page pdf)
  • Complete the application including the site map indicating the exact location on the property where you wish to shoot
  • Leave the fee section blank, as Site Photography Permit fee will be determined by SOHO
  • Any special requests/needs will be handled on an individual basis at the time of the application
  • Upon receipt of your application, you will be notified of the Site Photography Permit fee and security deposit, and if a certificate of insurance will be necessary
  • If the application is approved, a Site Photography Permit will be issued, which must be carried while conducting the shoot on site
  • The permit becomes valid once signed by the producer and SOHO, fees are paid in full, and supplementary requirements and conditions are agreed to
  • Activities, areas of use, dates and times of photographing will not be modified without express approval of Save Our Heritage Organisation.
  • Activities, areas of use, dates and times of filming (photographing) will not be modified without express approval of Save Our Heritage Organisation.
  • SOHO reserves the right to refuse any application that is not in the best interest of SOHO and the Marston House & Gardens or revoke permission without notice if terms and conditions of the permit are violated.

Commercial Photography Rules & Regulations

  1. The taking of still photos for commercial purposes in the Marston House Gardens requires a Site Photography Permit approved and issued by Save Our Heritage Organisation (SOHO). The Site Photography Permit will state any and all conditions pertaining to the use as SOHO shall determine, and the fee and charges to be paid for such use.
  2. No smoking permitted on the property. No gum, food or drink is permitted in the interior of the property.
  3. A SOHO staff member must accompany the crew and staff of the Client while on site at all times.
  4. Fees and charges, including a security deposit, for use of the Marston House Gardens for commercial photography are established by SOHO and are to be paid prior to the issuance of the Site Photography Permit.
  5. All fees, insurance certificates, city permits, and final permit application must be received before permission to film will be granted
  6. SOHO must be compensated for loss of business if photo shoot will take place in areas that will prohibit customer access to revenue producing areas and all established facility rental fees must be paid in addition to site photography permit fees.
  7. Activities that will endanger public safety at the Marston House are prohibited. SOHO must have advance notice of all water and electrical needs, (whether or not you provide your own generators)
  8. No special effects are permitted on the premises unless previously approved in writing and initialed.
  9. Police Department and/or San Diego Fire Department may shut down a filming company at anytime if they feel it is endangering public safety.
  10. The permittee is responsible for leaving the area clean and litter-free. Upon shoot completion, the area used must be left free of litter or debris. A custodial and trash receptacle will be deducted from the security deposit of permittees who do not leave the Marston House property in the condition in which it was found.
  11. No artifacts, furniture of the museum or belongings are to be touched, moved or altered in any way. The Client agrees to use special care and consideration to prevent damage to property and will indemnify and hold harmless Save Our Heritage Organisation from and against any and all damage and liability for injury to or death of persons from damage or destruction of property. The permitee will be responsible for all property damage caused by operations at the site. Damage to the property should be reported immediately. It will be assessed and repair costs billed to the permittee.
  12. No overnight storage of equipment or supplies.
  13. Neither people nor equipment are allowed in the plant or flower beds at any time
  14. All vehicle and equipment parking must be on paved surfaces only. No parking will be allowed on the roots of trees, lawns, or other sensitive green spaces.
  15. The erection of structures, fences, poles, tents, stages, or the installation of electricity is prohibited.
  16. Cables, dolly track, and other potential hazards are to be shielded. Floors and walkways will be protected from excessive dirt or liquid.
  17. Permittees must carry the permit and present it upon request. Permits will be revoked without payment of any compensation in the event of a breach of any laws, by-laws, or conditions set up herein or in force. Non-compliance may also result in additional charges.

MARSTON HOUSE MUSEUM & GARDENS

3525 Seventh Avenue, San Diego 92103
(619) 297-9327

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Mailing - PO Box 80788 · San Diego CA 92138 | Offices - 3525 Seventh Avenue · San Diego CA 92103
Phone (619) 297-9327 | Offices closed due to COVID until further notice | Museums & Shops (619) 297-9327
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