Filming in Hertfordshire

Considering filming in a public space or highway in Hertfordshire? You will need to make an application with us first to ensure you have the correct permission before you shoot.

You must apply even if you are a student, you have a small crew, or you do not think you will be causing an obstruction on the streets.

Our online system is easy to use and our team is available to support you through the process.

Let’s get you started

  • Public liability insurance

    All productions need Public Liability Insurance to the value of £10 million before filming or commercial photography can commence in public areas. This covers the legal responsibilities of your production if your activities cause injury to a third party or damage to property. If you decide not to take out insurance and there is an accident, you could face prosecution.


    Risk assessment and method statement

    Each production will also need a site-specific Risk Assessment and Method Statement (RAMS), plus a residents’ letter for our approval. You will also need to sign and adhere to the Hertfordshire Filming Protocol, which you can find below.

    HERTFORDSHIRE FILMING PROTOCOL


    Traffic management application

    If you are looking for traffic management, you may need to complete an additional application, along with supplying a Traffic Management Plan. If you are filming (or if your equipment will be) on the public highway, you will need a permit and charges will apply. 

  • We liaise closely with the local district, highways team and businesses on your behalf before approving any application.

    Along with your application you will need to provide the following:

    • Public Liability Insurance to the value of £10 million

    • Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS)

    • A copy of your residential and business letter, which will need to be distributed once approved

    • Traffic Management Plan (if required)

    Ready to apply?

    GET STARTED

  • If your production is being filmed on a public highway, you may need to apply for traffic management through our online system.

    Our job is to make sure your filming runs smoothly and efficiently, minimising disruption to highway users and the public where possible.

    In addition to your highway filming permit, you will need a:

    • Risk Assessment and Method Statement (RAMS)

    • Traffic Management Plan of the area affected and a diversion route (whether this is a full closure or stop and go)

    • Residents and/or business letter

    • Confirmation of consent from the police (if necessary)

    • Public Liability Insurance to the value of £10 million

    Once we have your application, we can advise on next steps, depending on your needs. We need a minimum of four weeks to process filming applications and notices, and eight weeks to process film orders.

    We may also need to do a site visit. You cannot start filming until you have a valid licence and/or a temporary traffic regulation order.

    APPLY NOW

  • Do you need a unit base and parking for your tech vehicles? If so, Hertfordshire County Council and the district councils have lots of options available.

    We can also refer you to local businesses that offer parking. Get in touch with your requirements to get the ball rolling.

    CONTACT US

What will it cost?

Are you filming in a public space or on a footpath or highway? Charges will apply.

These vary depending on the district, size of your production, level of disruption, administrative time and notice period. You can find out how much it will cost when you make an application. As a rough guide, fees (excluding VAT) are likely to be as follows:

You will also need to pay for parking charges and any costs relating to council-owned assets. These vary by district, but we can provide you with guidance on these costs and the application process.

PERMISSION TO FILM
ADMIN FEE

£125 to £500
plus VAT

Application fees

LOW LOADER PERMISSIONS
(PER LOCATION)

Up to £150 per day plus VAT

DRONE PERMISSIONS
(PER LOCATION)

£150
plus VAT

STUDENTS

£0 per day

You still need to apply for permission as a student.

Rates for highways/street location filming

SMALL PRODUCTION

£500 to £1,000 per day plus VAT

Including a small amount of disruption, a small amount of space or crew (1-5 members).

MEDIUM PRODUCTION

£850 to £1,500 per day plus VAT

Including a medium amount of disruption, a medium amount of space or crew (6-20 members).

LARGE PRODUCTION

£1,500 to £2,000 per day plus VAT

Including a small amount of disruption, a large amount of space or crew (20-40 members).

EXTRA-LARGE PRODUCTION

£2,000 to £4,000 per day plus VAT

Including a very large amount of disruption, a large amount of space or crew (40+ members).

Ready to apply?

Have a question?