Film permits are required for any filming or photography activity for the purpose of film or commercial production on public property, public facilities, private property, residences or areas in the City right-of-way.

Film permits are reviewed and issued by the City Manager’s Office. 

• Submit application at least a minimum of 14 business days prior to the date of request to conduct an activity for which a permit is required. Allow at least 30 days prior to date of requests for permits requiring additional Police escorts or traffic control.
  
  
• Additional Permissions: If the filming/photography takes place in or around Levi's Stadium or the Santa Clara Convention Center, additional permissions are required.
  
  
• Traffic Control Plan / Police Service Agreements: If such activity interferes with traffic or requires additional traffic control by the Santa Clara Police Department, the application may require additional review. 

Requirements for City Film Permits

1. Film permits are required for any filming or photography activity for the purpose of film or commercial production on public property, public facilities, private property, residences or areas in the City right-of-way.
2. Production companies and individuals are required to submit a film permit application.

Additional Required Documents

1. Business License: The City requires the film permit applicant to obtain a business license when such employees come into the city for these purposes of conducting a business or rendering services six (6) or more days during any calendar year, shall pay a tax based on the number of employees: Visit the City of Santa Clara business license webpage.
2. Certificate of Insurance: The City requires the film permit applicant to provide a Certificate of Insurance that meets the requirements detailed under Section 12.60.060 Liability provisions of the Film Ordinance.
3. Insurance Requirement: $1M commercial liability with required language for Endorsement - Naming the City of Santa Clara as an additional insured for protection against claims of third persons for personal injuries, wrongful deaths and property damage. Include the following endorsement on the Certificate of Insurance for the film/photo date(s): The City of Santa Clara, its City Council, commissions, officers, employees, agents and volunteers shall be named as additional insureds. (City of Santa Clara, 1500 Warburton Ave. Santa Clara, CA 95050)
4. Traffic Control Plan: The City may require the film permit applicant to provide a Traffic Control Plan for any activities that restrict travel on public streets, sidewalks, and trails. Traffic Control Plans can be found online. The film permit applicant shall be fully responsible for implementing the City-approved Traffic Control Plan.   

Exemptions for Film Permits

• News Media: Film permits shall not apply to or affect reporters, photographers or cameramen in the employ of a newspaper, news service or similar entity engaged in on-the-spot media, publishing or broadcasting of news events of general public interest.
• Family Video: The filming or videotaping of motion pictures solely for private family use.
• Studio Filming: Filming activities, motion or still photography conducted at a studio.
• Charitable Films: Projects that qualify under Section 501(c)(3) are exempt from permit-related fees but require a film permit.
• Student Filming: Project will be considered on a case-by-case basis as to whether permit-related fees will be waived, but a film permit is always required.

How to Apply for Film Permit

1. View and download the Film Permit Application
2. View the City Film Ordinance for complete rules and regulations.
3. Submit completed film permit applications and other required documents to Maria Le at mle@santaclaraca.gov 

For More Information

For any questions, email David Knight, Communications Manager, at dknight@santaclaraca.gov or call 408-615-5515.