locations

[Sian105]

I'm in the planning of a short film and this may seem like a stupid question, but when filming in public places, like, busy streets, buildings etc, do you have to apply to the council or anything? I assume you have to clear it with the management/owner if you use their building...I just didn't know if you could get sued for showing certain places, and do you need permission from anyone who is in shot?

Sian

[eddie]

nope. just do it. Sort out all the legalities afterwards when the film is a smash hit.

[smj]

No need to get permission to film on streets or the like. However, if you're doing anything like running around with a sword (fake or real), or a gun, or any other kind of weapon, you'll need to contact the police and tell them exactly *where* and exactly *when* you'll be doing it, so they can reassure any panicky members of the public that it's just a film.

[Ruthie]

We filmed a music video on a street and yes, we had to to get permission. If your filming is going to block traffic you will need to talk to the department of transportation.

If you don't plan to block any traffic, you shouldn't have to worry about it.

Good luck
Ruthie