About Permits
In protected areas managed by the Iceland Nature Conservation Agency, a permit from the Agency is required for activities including filming and photography projects, research, events and construction or other development work.
Permit applications are submitted through the Agency’s online service portal. It is important to provide as much detailed information as possible in the application. Fees are charged for processing applications in accordance with the current fee schedule.
Applications are generally processed within 15–30 days, depending on the type and scope of the application. The project, or any preparations for it within the protected area, may not begin until a permit has been issued.
Drone regulations in protected areas
Drone flights in protected areas generally require a permit from the Nature Conservation Agency.
Research permits
Anyone planning to conduct research within a protected area must submit a permit application through the online service portal. The application must include a description of the proposed research and its location, as well as information on the equipment and methodology to be used and the proposed timing of the research.
Filming and photography permits
Anyone planning to film or take photographs within a protected area must submit a permit application through the Nature Conservation Agency’s online service portal. The application must include a description of the proposed project and its location, as well as detailed information on how and when the project will be carried out.
Events
You can apply for a permit to hold an event in a protected area, such as a sporting event, gathering, wedding, concert or film screening. The application must include a description of the proposed event and its location, as well as detailed information on how and when the event will take place.
Permits for construction and development in protected areas
The Nature Conservation Agency is responsible for issuing permits for all construction and development activities within protected areas. This includes, for example, any disturbance of the ground, construction of walking trails and structures, and other infrastructure development.
Permit applications are assessed on the basis of the relevant protection provisions, management and protection plans, and the Nature Conservation Act. Applications must include detailed information about the proposed work.
Off-road driving permits
Driving motor vehicles off-road is prohibited. The Nature Conservation Agency may grant a special permit for off-road driving for the maintenance of huts and emergency shelters, or for filmmaking, where the work cannot be carried out by other means.
The application must include the exact route for which the permit is requested and an explanation of why the work cannot be carried out by other means.
Permits for activities in protected areas
You can apply for a permit to carry out activities within protected areas. The application must include a description of the proposed activity and its location, as well as detailed information on how and when it will be carried out.