How can you secure location shooting permits?

2 Apply for permits

The second step to secure location shooting permits is to apply for them as early as possible. You may need to fill out forms, pay fees, submit insurance certificates, and provide details about your project, such as the purpose, scope, duration, crew size, equipment, and impact. You may also need to get approval from other agencies or departments, such as the police, fire, transportation, or parks. Depending on the location and the permit, the application process may take from a few days to a few weeks or even months. You should always check the requirements and deadlines of the specific permit you need and follow up with the authorities regularly.

3 Communicate with stakeholders

The third step to secure location shooting permits is to communicate with the stakeholders involved in your location shooting. These may include the location owner or manager, the neighbors, the community, the cast and crew, and the authorities. You should inform them about your project, your schedule, your needs, and your expectations. You should also listen to their concerns, requests, and feedback. You should try to establish a good rapport and trust with them and be respectful, flexible, and professional. You should also be prepared to deal with any changes, conflicts, or emergencies that may arise during your location shooting.

4 Follow the rules

The fourth step to secure location shooting permits is to follow the rules and regulations of your location shooting. You should abide by the terms and conditions of your permit and respect the rights and property of others. You should also comply with any laws and ordinances that apply to your location shooting, such as noise, traffic, safety, or environmental regulations. You should also be courteous and cooperative with any officials or inspectors who may visit your location shooting. You should also keep your location clean and tidy and restore it to its original condition after your shooting.

5 Document your permit

The fifth step to secure location shooting permits is to document your permit and keep a copy of it with you at all times. You should also have a copy of your insurance certificate, your script, your shot list, and your contact information. You should also have a backup plan in case your permit is denied, revoked, or modified. You should also be ready to show your permit to anyone who may ask for it, such as the location owner or manager, the neighbors, the authorities, or the media. You should also keep track of your permit expenses and receipts for your budget and accounting purposes.

6 Learn from your experience

The sixth step to secure location shooting permits is to learn from your experience and improve your skills and knowledge. You should evaluate your location shooting process and outcome and identify what worked well and what did not. You should also solicit feedback from your stakeholders and thank them for their cooperation and support. You should also document your lessons learned and best practices and share them with your peers and colleagues. You should also update your portfolio and resume with your location shooting projects and achievements.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?