What Filmmakers Must Know about Filming in Public: Florida Law & Statutes

Are you a filmmaker that’s considering a film shoot in Florida? Before you plan a commercial shoot in any Florida city or town. You’re going to need to familiarize yourself with the Florida law for filming in public. This with regards to commercial filming, in public, varies by city and town. Which can make the entire process of planning. And legally executing a film shoot in the Sunshine State a challenge at best. Especially for a newcomer. 

At Beverly Boy Productions we can provide more than just access to local film crews. And location scouts that will help you find and choose the desired Florida location for a professional film shoot.

With offices in Florida, and decades of experience, we can assist with many of the legal aspects of scheduling and executing a shoot in the Sunshine State including permitting, acquiring proper liability insurance, and following local regulations on filming in public.

Give us a call to learn more about how we can assist you with your next scheduled shoot.

Florida Film Permits

If you’ll be filming in public, Florida law states that you will need a film permit. Film permits are handled on a local level throughout the state by the individual local film commissions or city and county government offices for the location in which you intend to shoot.

Before you schedule a shoot, make sure that you have taken steps to reach out to the appropriate local film commission for details on a permit. 

Filming on State or Federal Property in Florida

Those that are considering federal property in Florida for a film shoot, such as a courthouse or similar location will need to take additional steps in seeking a permit from the Homeland Security website.

Before you plan a film shoot, if you’re filming in public, Florida law requires that you obtain a permit from the Homeland Security website if you’re considering state or federal property for your film location.

Filming on Florida Roadways

Those interested in filming on Florida roadways or bridges should seek permission to film from the local Florida Department of Transportation.

The application to film on a Florida roadway may also require approval from local law enforcement. If traffic control is required. As well as from the United States Coast Guard if the filmmaking will require any control of a movable bridge.

There are several throughout the state. If you’re not familiar with filming in public? Florida laws surrounding proper permitting for the various locations that you could film in the Sunshine State could be tricky to navigate.

It’s best to be diligent and to make sure that you’ve taken all necessary steps to obtain proper permissions to shoot before the production begins. 

Two Party Consent Law

In addition to the need to follow all proper permitting requirements if you’ll be filming in public. Florida law also requires that you obtain two-party consent anytime you intend to film both audio and video of a conversation.

The two-party consent law states that all parties involved in the conversation must consent to the recording. Thus, if you’ll be filming in public? Florida law requires you to have permission from those you intend to film prior to the recording. 

As you can see

Navigating the various laws that surround Florida law for filming in public can certainly be challenging. Working with a production company that has experience in Florida is key to ensuring your production moves forward without any hiccups or hassles.