Photography in Rutgers Gardens
Everyone is welcome to take photographs of the picturesque landscapes, flowers, and wildlife at Rutgers Gardens. In fact, we encourage visitors to take casual photographs for their own personal, non-commercial use. Personal photos of family and friends in casual clothes and not involving a special photographer or a tripod does not require a permit.
However, if you are planning to take posed photographs of people, whether amateur or professional, a preordered photo permit is required. Additionally, any photography of people where a separate photographer is present or a tripod is used to photograph people requires a permit. This also includes posed photos of people in special event attire and photography related to any photos for proposal, wedding, engagement, prom, graduation, maternity, ceremony, modeling, etc.
Note: Rutgers students, staff, and faculty who want to photograph people in the Gardens for official Rutgers-related projects and university classes should contact the Gardens Office for scheduling and to receive a no-cost permit.
Photo/Proposal Permit Details
- Photo/Proposal permits are available year-round.
- Photo/Proposal permits should be requested with at least 72 hours notice (Monday-Friday).
- Photo/Proposal permits are scheduled for a 2-hour increment.
- Rutgers Gardens operates with seasonal hours. As of September 30th, Rutgers Gardens will be closed at 6:00pm.
- The fee is $150 for 1-5 people or $200 for 6-15 people (photographers included in the count).
- We cannot accommodate groups of more than 15 people.
Guidelines for product promotion, videography, and drones
Videos filmed at Rutgers Gardens—including filming for electronic media, videos, vlogs, motion pictures, documentaries, promotional material, television shows or commercials—must adhere to Rutgers University policies. For restrictions, fees, how to request permission, and other information about filming, visit the Rutgers Filming and Photography on Campus page.
To request a Photo/Proposal Permit, please complete the Request Form.
Permit fees help support the planting, upkeep, and maintenance of the grounds, to keep Rutgers Gardens looking beautiful for all visitors to use and enjoy.
If you have questions or need additional information, please email us.