How to Get a Greystone Mansion Photo Permit: A 2026 Guide

If you're planning a photoshoot at Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills, you'll need a photo permit before you arrive. The estate is one of the most beautiful photography locations in Los Angeles — but it's also one of the strictest about scheduling, and time slots disappear within minutes of becoming available.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about the Greystone Mansion photo permit process: current rates, the exact application timing, what's allowed and what's not, park hours, and how to plan your session for the best chance of getting your preferred date.

As a Los Angeles wedding photographer who has photographed multiple sessions at Greystone, I'll share the insider details that make the difference between a smooth booking and a stressful one.

What Is a Greystone Mansion Photo Permit?

The Greystone Mansion photo permit is issued by the City of Beverly Hills and is required for any non-commercial photography on the estate grounds. This includes engagement photos, wedding portraits, family sessions, quinceañera photos, and other commemorative photography.

Without a permit, photographers and clients can be asked to leave by park rangers. The permit ensures your session runs smoothly and gives you legitimate access to one of the most photographed estates in Southern California.

A few things to know upfront:

• Permits cover exterior areas only — the interior of the mansion is not accessible for photography

• A maximum of 6 people are allowed per permit, including the photographer

• Drones are not permitted at Greystone under any circumstances

• Permits are not available on holidays

Greystone Mansion Photo Permit Cost in 2026

Current permit rates are set by the City of Beverly Hills and are charged per hour:

• Beverly Hills residents: $319 per hour

• Non-residents: $399 per hour

Permits can be booked for either one hour or two hours, depending on availability. Most engagement and portrait sessions use a single hour, while larger sessions or those wanting more variety often book two hours.

Quick cost reference:

Session length	Resident cost	Non-resident cost
1 hour	$319	$399
2 hours	$638	$798

These rates are for the permit only and don't include photographer fees, hair and makeup, or any other vendor costs.

Planning your Greystone Mansion session? I'd love to document it. Reserve your date here →

When Permits Are Available

Greystone Mansion photo permits are available between 10:30 am and 4:30 pm on most days. Outside of those hours, permits aren't issued — even though the park itself is open longer.

The park hours themselves are:

• Pacific Standard Time (winter): 10:00 am to 5:00 pm daily

• Daylight Savings Time (mid-March to early November): 10:00 am to 6:00 pm daily

• Closed: Thanksgiving and Christmas

• May close early or be unavailable: during private events, filming, or City programming

Because permit hours end at 4:30 pm, the last possible permit start time is 3:30 pm for a one-hour session (which has to wrap by 4:30 pm). If you want late afternoon golden hour light, this is the slot to target.

How to Apply for a Greystone Mansion Photo Permit (Step by Step)

The application process is specific and timing-sensitive. Here's exactly how it works.

Step 1: Identify Your Eligibility Date

Reservations open exactly 2 weeks in advance of your desired session date, at 9:00 am Pacific Time.

For example: if you want to shoot on November 15, your application window opens on November 1 at 9:00 am.

This is a hard rule. You cannot apply earlier. Applications submitted before the eligibility date are not accepted.

Step 2: Submit the Form at 9:00 am Sharp

The City of Beverly Hills uses a time-stamp system. Permits are issued in the order received based on when your application form is submitted.

Popular dates and times — especially weekends, holidays around weddings, and late afternoon slots during peak season — are claimed within minutes. Some couples report getting in line at 8:55 am to make sure they're first when the form goes live.

Where to apply: Beverly Hills Non-Commercial Photography page

Step 3: Wait for the Application Email

If your requested date and time are available, the City will email you an application to complete. You'll provide details about your session — names, photographer info, type of photography, and number of people.

The City responds to inquiries within two business days, but during peak booking periods this can take longer.

Step 4: Pay and Receive Your Permit

After your application is reviewed, you'll receive a payment link by email. Once you pay, the City will email your permit.

Important: Your date is NOT confirmed until the permit is actually issued. Beverly Hills strongly advises waiting to book your photographer, hair and makeup artist, or any other vendors until your permit is in hand.

Insider Tips for Booking a Greystone Permit

After photographing multiple sessions at Greystone, here are the details that make the booking process easier.

Set a Calendar Alarm Two Weeks Out

Mark your calendar for 9:00 am exactly 14 days before your desired session date. Have the application form open in your browser at 8:55 am. Refresh at 8:59 am. Submit the moment the form goes live.

Late afternoon slots between 2:30 pm and 4:30 pm during Daylight Savings months book out the fastest.

Have Your Information Ready in Advance

When the form goes live, you don't want to be searching for details. Have these ready:

• Names of everyone in your session (max 6 including photographer)

• Your photographer's name and contact info

• Your preferred backup time slots

• Credit card for payment

Choose Weekdays Over Weekends When Possible

Weekday permits are easier to secure and often a calmer experience. The estate has fewer visitors, fewer overlapping permit holders, and a much more relaxed feel.

Tuesday through Thursday afternoons are the sweet spot — quiet light, easier parking, and rangers who aren't juggling multiple groups.

Consider Booking Two Hours During Peak Season

If you're shooting during peak wedding months (May through October) or if your session involves outfit changes, booking a two-hour permit gives you breathing room. The estate is large and a single hour can feel rushed if you want to photograph multiple areas.

Keep Your Permit Printed on the Day

The City requires you to have a printed copy of the issued permit on hand during your session. Don't rely on a phone version — print it the night before.

Planning your Greystone Mansion session? I'd love to document it. Reserve your date here →

What Happens If Your Date Isn't Available

Greystone permits sell out fast, especially for weekends and golden hour slots during DST months. If your preferred date is taken, here are your options:

Try a Different Time Slot

If your preferred 4:00 pm slot is gone, check for openings earlier in the day. Late morning sessions (10:30 am to noon) photograph beautifully in winter and shoulder seasons when the sun sits lower in the sky.

Choose a Backup Date

Have a list of 2-3 backup dates ready when you apply. Flexibility dramatically improves your chances of getting a permit.

Consider Other Beverly Hills Locations

Several beautiful Beverly Hills locations work as alternatives or complements to Greystone. Some require permits, others don't:

• Beverly Hills City Hall — Spanish Renaissance architecture, palm-lined courtyard. Permit required for professional photography on the grounds.

• Beverly Gardens Park — Open gardens with the iconic Beverly Hills sign nearby. Permit required.

• Will Rogers Memorial Park — Quiet park across from the Beverly Hills Hotel.

• Beverly Hills residential streets — Palm-lined neighborhoods that don't typically require permits for walking portraits.

If you're considering a Beverly Hills courthouse wedding, many of these locations work beautifully as portrait stops on the same day.

What's Not Allowed at Greystone Mansion

Knowing what's prohibited helps you avoid surprises on the day of your session. The City of Beverly Hills enforces the following rules strictly:

• No drones under any circumstances

• No interior access to the mansion (exterior only)

• No exclusive use of any space — your permit allows you to photograph in the areas, but other visitors and other permit holders may also be present

• No commercial filming or photography under a non-commercial permit (commercial work requires a separate, more expensive permit)

• No more than 6 people including the photographer

If you're planning a larger group session, multiple back-to-back permits, or commercial work, you'll need to contact the City directly for special arrangements. Commercial permits are issued by the Park Ranger Supervisors and require a different application process.

How a Greystone-Experienced Photographer Helps

Booking the permit yourself is straightforward, but the actual session involves more nuance than most couples expect. Here's what a photographer familiar with Greystone brings to the day:

• Knowledge of the best light at each location within the estate (the cypress walkway, grand staircase, gardens, fountains, and overlook each have distinct ideal times of day)

• A planned route that maximizes your hour without rushing

• Backup location ideas if a particular area is unexpectedly closed or in use

• Understanding of ranger protocols so the session doesn't get interrupted

• Coordination with hair and makeup timing to ensure you arrive ready to shoot

If you've already booked your permit, having a photographer who has worked at Greystone before makes a noticeable difference in the final gallery. If you haven't booked yet, working together to time the permit application and select the best slot is part of the planning process.

Planning your Greystone Mansion session? I'd love to document it. Reserve your date here →

Greystone Mansion Photo Permit FAQ

How much is the photo permit at Greystone Mansion?

The Greystone Mansion photo permit costs $319 per hour for Beverly Hills residents and $399 per hour for non-residents. Permits can be booked for one or two hours, pending availability.

How far in advance can I book a Greystone Mansion permit?

Reservations open exactly 2 weeks in advance at 9:00 am Pacific Time. For example, to book November 15, the application window opens November 1 at 9:00 am. Applications are processed in time-stamp order, so popular slots are claimed within minutes.

What time of day is best for Greystone Mansion photos?

Permits are available between 10:30 am and 4:30 pm. Late afternoon slots between 2:30 pm and 4:30 pm photograph best during Daylight Savings months when the light softens across the estate. During winter months, slots earlier in the day work well because the sun sits lower in the sky.

Can you go inside Greystone Mansion for photos?

No. The Greystone Mansion photo permit covers exterior areas only. The interior of the mansion is not accessible for engagement photos, portraits, or any non-commercial photography.

How many people are allowed under one Greystone permit?

A maximum of 6 people including the photographer. This includes the couple, photographer, and any additional people such as hair and makeup artists or family members. Larger groups require special arrangements with the City.

Are drones allowed at Greystone Mansion?

No. Drones are not allowed at Greystone Mansion under any circumstances, even with a permit.

What if I need to cancel or change my Greystone permit?

The City of Beverly Hills handles all permit modifications directly. Contact the Greystone office at (310) 285-6830 as soon as possible if your plans change. Cancellation and refund policies vary, so ask when you receive your permit confirmation.

Do I need insurance for a Greystone Mansion photo permit?

Non-commercial photo permits at Greystone don't typically require liability insurance. However, professional photographers should carry their own insurance regardless. If you're booking commercial filming or large-scale photography, separate insurance requirements apply through the commercial permit process.

Can I bring props or styling items?

Small personal items like florals, signs, or champagne are generally fine for non-commercial photography. Large furniture, structures, or anything requiring setup is not permitted under a standard permit.

What happens if I don't have a permit?

Park rangers regularly check for permits during photography sessions. Sessions without a permit can be shut down on the spot, and you may be asked to leave the property. The permit is non-negotiable for any professional photography at Greystone.

Plan Your Greystone Mansion Session

Greystone Mansion remains one of the most beautiful and photographed locations in Los Angeles for engagement photos, wedding portraits, family sessions, and elopements. The permit process takes some planning, but the resulting photographs make the effort worthwhile.

If you're ready to plan your session — whether you've already booked the permit or are just starting to think through the timing — feel free to reach out. I work with couples across Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and Southern California on engagement and wedding photography, and I'm happy to help coordinate timing for your Greystone permit.

For more inspiration, see my Greystone Mansion engagement photos guide for a complete look at what a session there looks like.

Planning your Greystone Mansion session? I'd love to document it. Reserve your date here →