Permission To Film - Sussex Film Office

Are you planning on filming in Sussex?

The Sussex Film Office is the first port of call for all types of productions and photo shoots. We provide advice on filming in the region and assisting with applications to gain permission to film. We work closely with the councils to improve efficiency and make your production run smoothly.

We are here to help and please contact us if you would like any advice or information.

Do I need permission?

All filming and photography requires a permit or permission from the council and/or land and property owners. This includes, but is not limited to;

Public highways and roads
Pedestrianised streets and public places
Parks and green open spaces
Car parks and on street parking
Beaches
Markets
Schools
Shopping centres
Leisure centres
Libraries
Cemeteries and crematoriums
Council owned land and property
Privately owned land and property

Do I have to pay to film?

All locations and permits do come with a fee attached. However, there is no set fee and

the cost will be determined based on a number of factors such as the location, what you are doing there, cast and crew size and duration of filming.

We will always do our best to accommodate all budget sizes and try to find you the best location to suit your budget. If you'd like to make an enquiry about the cost of a location please click 'Make an enquiry' on the right hand side of the page.

Requirements

When you complete an application the following items are required

Risk Assessment
Public Liability Insurance of £10m (some councils require £5m)
A map of where the filming activity will take place. This does not apply to blanket permits

Notice Period

The lead time does vary depending on the location. We recommend you give at least 3 days notice for small productions, 5 days for medium productions and 10 days for large productions.

To film on the highways using the stop/go system at least 5 working days notice is required and 10 weeks for road closures.

Useful Information and Documents

Make an Enquiry
Get pre-approval and quote to film in public places and Council land and property

Application
Apply for a filming and photography permit

Highways Application
Apply for a permit to film on the highways

Filming location Enquiry
Find filming locations or enquire about a specific place in Sussex

Terms and Conditions
General T&Cs for Sussex Film Office