Filming authorization

Guidelines to follow

Objective

The aim of this guide is to facilitate photo and video shoots in our establishments, while ensuring safety, the quality of the visitor experience, and protection of the environment.

Photo and video shoot authorization

• Any person or entity (hereinafter the "Producer") wishing to carry out a photo or video shoot in our establishments must obtain prior written authorization from the management of the establishment concerned (hereinafter the "Establishment").
• This application for permission must be submitted at least four (4) weeks before the planned shooting date to ensure proper planning and obtain the required authorizations.
• No activities likely to harm the environment or wildlife, to undermine visitor safety, or to disturb the tranquillity of the site, will be permitted.

Photo and video shoot application procedure

1. Fill in the online form and complete the fields below:
   1. Shooting location
   2. Type of production (advertising, film, series, TV show, documentary, photo, video)
   3. Project summary
   4. Distribution and reach
   5. Shooting schedule and timetable
   6. Accommodation needs in our establishments
   7. Use of an uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV or drone), if applicable
   8. Link to our mission
   9. Producer contact details
2. If the application is approved, you will be required to sign the memorandum of understanding drawn up by Sépaq and provide the required legal documents (proof of insurance, etc.).
3. If your application involves the use of an uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV or drone), you will need to complete and sign the drone flight authorization document and provide the pilot's licence of the camera operator.

General terms and conditions

• Shooting times and locations must be agreed in advance to avoid conflicts with the Establishment's regular activities.
• Crews for the shoot must comply with current safety regulations, particularly with regard to the protection of flora and fauna, vehicle traffic, the use of equipment, and waste management.

Rights and responsibilities

• In order to carry out a photo or video shoot in a national park, each participant must hold an access permit issued under the Parks Act. Payment of access fees is compulsory for all members of the production team for all activities, including transport and delivery of material. Access is free of charge for those aged 17 and under.
• The Producer will be held responsible for any damage to facilities or the environment resulting from its activities.
• The Producer must provide Sépaq with proof of insurance valid for the period during which the photo or video shoot is taking place. This must include at least $2,000,000 in third-party liability coverage.

Shooting costs

• Facility rental and use fees may be charged depending on the nature of the shoot and its impact on the Establishment's activities. These fees may vary from one establishment to another.
• Equipment rental costs for certain activities, fishing rights, and/or accommodations will also be covered by the Producer.
• The Producer could be required to pay for the resources needed to prepare the site of the shoot, and also to restore it.
• No refunds will be granted in the event of cancellation. A scheduled shooting day can be transferred to a later date, depending on the Establishment's availability. No transfer is possible beyond six months of the initial date.

Territorial protection

Sépaq ensures the development of the territories entrusted to it by limiting, among other things, human impact on natural environments. It encourages Quebecers to adopt better practices in their collective efforts to protect the environment and is involved in numerous conservation projects.

The Producer must partake in this mission by committing to certain rules, including the following:

• Removal of natural elements (animals, plants, dead wood, rocks, etc.) from national parks is prohibited.
• Visitors may not stray from the hiking trails in national parks so as to avoid trampling flora.
• Feeding wildlife or leaving food and waste unattended are prohibited.
• Curfews must be respected and noise minimized at all times.
• Garbage must be disposed of in the bins provided, not left about, and any harmful substances such as soap, oil, fuel, or pesticides must be taken home by their owners.

Restrictions

• Photo and video shoots are not permitted on weekends or public holidays. Special arrangements must be made for shoots outside normal opening hours, which are from 8 a.m. to sunset.
• Generally speaking, pets are not allowed in national parks. However, dogs are allowed in some establishments, but only in certain areas during a specific period of the year.
• Photo and video shoots are prohibited in the preservation zones of national parks.

Use of uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs or drones)

An uncrewed aerial vehicle (also referred to as a UAV or drone) may be used during shoots, subject to certain conditions. The Producer must agree to

• Use and operate the UAV in accordance with the provisions of the Aeronautics Act, the Canadian Aviation Regulations, and the guidelines established by the competent authorities.
• Obey applicable privacy rules.
• Obtain, when needed, a Transport Canada Special Flight Operations Certificate and provide the information required by Transport Canada.
• Complete the drone flight authorization application form, signed by the director of the Sépaq Establishment.

Right of refusal

Sépaq reserves the right to refuse or modify an application for photo or video shoot authorization if it deems that the shoot could compromise safety, the visitor experience, or the integrity of the Establishment.