How to Get a Film Permit in Atlanta
Film permits are an important and integral part of the commercial production process. Virtually every city and state requires a film permit. This is the first step to legally filming a commercial shoot in public. Either within the local roads, parks, or other areas. Figuring out how to get a film permit in Atlanta is an important step for any filmmaker in the ATL or Georgia metro area.
To help you plan and prepare for your Atlanta, Georgia film shoot, we’ve put together this helpful guide.
Atlanta Georgia Film Permits
Before you apply for a film permit from the Atlanta Office of Entertainment, you’re going to want to make sure that you’re familiar with the local rules.
Filming in Atlanta is allowed under various circumstances. A permit is only required for certain activities. If you’re unsure as to whether a film permit is required for your production?
Consider the following rules in which a film permit is definitely required:
- Filming on public property in ATL.
- Filming in an area in which there will be interruption to the public and barricades or other local law enforcement support will be required.
- Night-time filming will take place and an exterior light will be used.
- A stage or other structure, that is temporary or fixed, will be built for the production.
- Pyrotechnics are going to be used.
- Dangerous stunts will be engaged.
- The use of wild animals will occur.
- The use of intellectual property that is owned by the city of Atlanta will come up.
Be Ready
In addition to these instances in which figuring out how to get a film permit in Atlanta is going to be absolutely necessary. There are also some other instances in which being prepared with a permit is welcomed and required.
When Atlanta Does NOT Require a Film Permit
Instead of listing all the instances in which Atlanta requires a film permit, it makes more sense to look at the instances in which a permit is not required.
There are a few instances in which filmmakers can express their First Amendment Rights. Which allows them to film on public property without a permit if they are capturing an original new story. Such as a demonstration, protest, or rally.
If you’re unsure about whether or not you’ll need a permit? Make sure you reach out to the City of Atlanta in advance of your film shoot.
Getting an Atlanta Film Permit
Figuring out how to get a film permit in Atlanta isn’t very difficult. In fact, once you’ve determined whether a permit is needed or not, you can apply for an Atlanta film permit only from the Atlanta Mayor Office of Film and Entertainment.
Permit applications must be requested in advance of the scheduled shoot. Make sure you allow at least two weeks for approval of the permit. And that you submit your certificate of insurance when you apply. You must have a $1M policy in order to film in Atlanta.
For more on how to get a film permit in Atlanta, or to schedule a shoot with a professional film crew in the ATL. Give Beverly Boy Productions a call at 404-474-3823!
