Fort Worth Park & Rec Seeking Input from Photographers on Permit Process

The Fort Worth Park & Recreation Department is seeking input from the broader photography community as it works on an update to its photography permit policy.

The city posted about the call for public input in a Monday blog post. According to the post, the department held a "Photographers in Parks" focus group in February to gather input on how to protect the city's parks from overcrowding while managing its photography permit program.

Now the department wants to hear from the broader photography community on the subject. That's why it's inviting residents to complete a 10-question survey on the subject by the end of the day on Thursday, April 30.

"Fort Worth parks and natural areas are more than beautiful backdrops—they are living spaces that support native plants, wildlife, and the memories we create together," the blog post states. "To protect these areas from overcrowding, trampling and overuse, we are updating our photography permit policy."

The post continues, "Your input will guide this process. Whether you are a professional or a hobbyist, your feedback is essential to creating a system that works for everyone while minimizing impacts on parks we value."

The 10-question survey will remain open until the end of the day on April 30. It asks whether respondents charge fees for outdoor photography and whether they are aware that providing services on public parkland for a fee requires a permit.

It also asks about the typical duration of photo sessions, what respondents would be considered a reasonable photography permit fee, and how long they think the permits should be valid. Currently, permits are valid for one hour.