In California—even for free public parks—commercial and professional photography (which includes engagement sessions, weddings, branding, or paid/promotion work) is regulated under California Code of Regulations Title 14, § 4316 and Government Code § 14998.8. These rules specify that any photography involving models, props, sets, or financial exchange must be conducted under an official California Film Commission permit
Photography that is purely personal, uses no props/models, doesn’t interfere with other visitors, and is handheld may be exempt—but most professional shoots do not qualify under these exceptions.
While not every open-access area mandates a permit, many beautiful regional and state-managed sites around Santa Maria—such as
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La Purísima Mission State Historic Park (Lompoc area, ~15 mi) – contains restored mission grounds under California Dept. of Parks & Rec administration
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Point Sal State Beach (near Guadalupe, ~20–25 mi) – managed as a state beach park unit; photography beyond personal use requires permit
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Morro Bay State Park (~30 mi south) – a state park in San Luis Obispo County; commercial imaging there falls under state regulations
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Montaña de Oro State Park (~35 mi south) – part of CA State Parks system in San Luis Obispo County; likewise requires permit for professional shoots
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Morro Strand State Beach (~30 mi south) – state beach unit managed by California Dept. of Parks & Rec; professional/commercial stills or video require permit
- Oceano Dunes State Park
- Other Parks may be subject to permits as well.
do require a permit when used for commercial photography. The permit is usually $100 and is paid to the California Film Commission. Heavenly Captures doesn’t profit from these permits.