Rutgers Gardens seasonal operating hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
Rutgers Gardens Photography Policy
All are welcome to take photographs of the scenery, plants, and wildlife at Rutgers Gardens for personal, non-commercial use. Casual snapshots taken with a handheld point-and-shoot camera or a camera phone are a special way to remember your visit to Rutgers Gardens!
A photo permit is required if you plan an outing to Rutgers Gardens for the purpose of taking posed photos in special event attire, or for photos related to a proposal, wedding, engagement, prom, graduation, maternity, special events and ceremonies, or for modeling purposes.
A permit is also required for any photographs where a separate photographer (professional or amateur) is present, or if a tripod/monopod, additional lighting or photography equipment, or props are used.
To request a photo permit, please complete this form. If you have questions or need additional information, please email us.
Permit fees help support the plants and maintenance needs of Rutgers Gardens. Photo permits are $150 for up to 5 people and $200 for 6 to 15 people, including the photographer. If you’re looking to bring a group larger than 15 people for a photo session at Rutgers Gardens, please email us to inquire about arrangements.
Photo Permit Details
- Photo permits are available year-round for sessions lasting up to two hours.
- Sessions may start as early as 9:00am and may be scheduled up to two hours before Rutgers Gardens closes. Photo permits are not issued for Mondays, as Rutgers Gardens is closed.
- Photo permits should be requested at least 3 business days before your preferred date.
- Rutgers students, staff, and faculty who want to photograph people in Rutgers Gardens for official university-related projects and classes should email us to schedule the session and receive a no-fee permit.
- Requests for commercial photography or any videos taken at Rutgers Gardens, including filming for motion pictures, documentaries, television programs, promotional materials, electronic media, and commercials must adhere to university policies. Visit the Rutgers University Filming and Photography on Campus page for more information.