Photography at BTA

At the time of the photo shoot, photographers and clients can pay for the permit and admissions fee at the admission window.

Permits are not available after 3 pm.

You can use permits for one photography session on the same day and time.  Multiple sessions with multiple clients will require multiple permits.

Permits can not be paid for in advance, online, or over the phone. 

The rules for photography permits can change anytime without warning. All parties the permit covers must obey our photography guidelines.

By visiting the Arboretum you agree to abide by the following policies and guidelines. Any individual or group found in violation of these will be escorted out of the Arboretum with no refund offered.

• All participants must leave promptly at the Arboretum closing time of 3:00pm (May-September) or 5:00pm (October-April).
• No smoking is permitted in the Arboretum including vapes and e-cigarettes. Smoking is only allowed in a personal vehicle in the main parking lot.
• The use of drones is strictly prohibited.
• Weapons, balloons, rice, confetti, glitter, flower petals, open flames of any kind including sparklers or smoke bombs are not allowed.
• Many animals call the Arboretum their home. Do not disturb or handle any wildlife found at the Arboretum. Do not bring in wildlife beyond what is allowed in our pet policy. Pet policy must be followed at all times.
• All participants must be fully and appropriately clothed (no nudity, swimwear or lingerie, etc.).
• No dressing room storage area will be provided unless an additional fee is paid for a room rental.
• No politically affiliated groups will be allowed to film or take photographs at BTA
• Photography/videography sessions should not disrupt or hinder access for visitors or staff. No trails should be blocked for more than a few moments.
• Tripods, gear and people must stay on paths and trails at all times and not stand or walk through dirt, mulch, plant beds or through creeks/washes.
• Do not enter any areas labeled “closed”, “under construction” or “staff only”.
• At no time should anyone climb on rocks, structures or trees. Nor should they enter any water features or bodies of water.
• No Arboretum property should be moved or disturbed. This includes but is not limited to picking/cutting plant materials, moving benches, rocks, feathers, hoses, signs, tools, etc.
• Nothing should be hung from trees or other structures. This includes dresses, decorations, etc.
• Motorized and non-motorized vehicles are not permitted with the exception of wheelchairs, strollers and wagons.
• The Arboretum assumes no responsibility for loss, theft or damage to any equipment or belongings.
• The named photographer on the permit will be responsible for any damage done during their permitted time including damage to trails, structures, plants or other Arboretum visitors.
• The Arboretum reserves the right to exclude any groups or individuals deemed to be hostile, detrimental or a risk to its property or interests. Groups or individuals shall be given equal opportunity regardless of race, creed, color, sex religion or national origin.

We reserve the right to change this policy at any time without advance notice.

General liability insurance covering this activity is required. The insurance must have coverage amounts of one million dollars ($1,000,000) for general liability and; must name Boyce Thompson Southwestern Arboretum as an additional named insured with the address listed as 37615 E Arboretum Way Superior, AZ 85143. A copy of the certificate must be filed with the Arboretum marketing department before this activity takes place, or the permit will be invalid.

In addition to the general liability insurance, a signed hold harmless agreement is required prior to the shoot for all media productions.

Permits are non-transferable and non-refundable. In case of inclement weather, a new date will be scheduled based on the availability of the Arboretum.