What Happens if You Get Caught Filming without a Permit in Orlando?

Filmmakers that have interest in coming to the Sunshine State for a commercial shoot are almost certain to consider Orlando. With parks galore and a central location to just about every main attraction in Florida, Orlando is a must visit location for any traveler, filmmaker, or visitor.  Filmmakers that are considering the idea of filming in Orlando need to know what responsibilities are required. Consider this, you’re filming in the Sunshine State. What happens if you get caught filming without a permit in Orlando?

Orlando Film Permits

The Orlando Film Commission is responsible for much of the production. In addition to plans made between professional filmmakers and the city in order to facilitate film shoots.

If you’re bringing a film crew to Orlando for a commercial film shoot, a permit will likely be required. This is especially true if you’re going to be filming from any public location such as a roadway, street, sidewalk, or city park.

The Application Process

Film permits are not expensive. They are very easy to apply for. And they provide the appropriate permissions for the commercial filmmakers that wish to capture footage throughout the city of Orlando. In many cases, applying for a film permit in Orlando is a free process.

Before you apply for a film permit, make sure that you’re aware of the exact location in which you intend to film. Because there are instances in where “Orlando” describes an area. But you’re really in nearby Kissimmee or other area locations.

When Orlando Film Permits are NOT Required

There are some circumstances in which a film permit in Orlando is NOT necessary.

Under these circumstances commercial filmmaking does not require the advance planning of an Orlando film permit:

• When producing news.
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• If producing a film at one of Orlando’s area production studios.
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• When production footage with handheld equipment that does not include a total cast or crew or more than 3 people.

The Risks

Keep in mind that anytime there is the risk for public interruption, the need to work with local law enforcement on crowd control.

Or if there are any instances in which special effects, pyrotechnics, or other potentially dangerous situations could arise during a production then a film permit will definitely be required in Orlando.

The Consequences

So, say you’re filming in Orlando. What happens if you’re caught filming without a permit? The short answer is, someone will tell you that you need to obtain a permit. 

The local city or county law enforcement that catches you filming without a permit will most likely ask that you stop filming immediately. And that you do not resume filming until or after you’ve obtained a permit from the Orlando Film Office.

The Takeaway

Civil penalties are possible. But it is rare for the City of Orlando to rule in favor of a civil penalty, such as a fine, for any filmmaker that is caught filming in Orlando without a permit.

Especially if they’re willing to obtain the appropriate permit in order to legally shoot.