Location Permits

Overview

When filming on public property you must seek approval. This is done by contacting the appropriate film commission for the local jurisdiction you plan on filming in to obtain a permit. Permit applications should be submitted at least two weeks prior to production to give ample time for processing.

When filming on public roadways or parks, you may be required to hire an off-duty sheriff deputy, police officer, or park ranger to facilitate the production at that location. In most scenerios, so does filmming within or from a moving vehicle on public roadways.

When to Get a Permit

You Must Get a Permit When

You are producing a film/video/digital media related project that affects city/county/state property, equipment or facilities, including any public property (e.g., sidewalks, roadways, parks, etc.).

Productions taking place on private property that also involve:

• Production vehicles and crew vehicles parking on the public street or right-of way.
• The use of a large tent or other temporary structure.
• The use of pyrotechnics, explosives or other incendiary devices.
• The display of any firearms or use of gunfire.
• Stunts of any kind.

You Do Not Need a Permit When

• You are producing a news segment or news feature.
• You are filming on private property and there is no impact to the public peace or effect on public property (see list above).
• Your production is taking place at a studio or sound stage.
• You are using a crew of 5 or less, a single camera, no other production equipment, and are not trespassing on or affecting city/county/state property.
• You are filming on a UCF campus. *

* Permission from the UCF Office of Communication is still required.

Orlando Film Commission

If you plan on filming on public land within Orange, Seminole, Osceola, or Lake counties, then you will need to submit an application to the Orlando Film Commission for a permit. This includes all public streets, roadways, easements, and other property controlled by the county or a local municipality (city, township, etc.).

Public Parks & State Roads

If you are filming at a county, city, or state park, or any kind of state road, please email Brooke Hill, at the Orlando Film Commission, for assistance.

Other Film Commissions

If you are filming outside of Orange, Seminole, Osceola, or Lake counties than you will need to contact the appropriate film commission. A list of local film commissions is available on the Film Florida website.

State & Federal Property

Property owned or managed by the State of Florida or US Federal Government usually requires contacting the specific agency that utilizes or maintains it. A list of state agencies and federal permitting is available on the Film Florida website.