Except as otherwise provided herein, it shall be unlawful for any person to engage in the business or activity of the filming, video taping or otherwise producing motion pictures for television or public exhibition at any place within the City, other than at or in an established motion picture, television or photography studio, unless such person has first been issued a film production permit by the Film Production Coordinator.

• Submit theFilm Permit Applicationat least 10-15 business days before filming begins.

• Include details such as:

  • Filming dates and times

  • Locations and street or sidewalk closures

  • Equipment and crew size

  • Parking and traffic control needs (Tacoma Municipal Code, Title 11.15.140)

• Fees for film permits are based on the scope of production and the use of city resources.

  • $100.00 commercial

  • $50.00 non-profit, student or B-roll only

• Productions must provide a certificate of insurance naming the City of Tacoma as an additional insured 

Productions involving stunts, pyrotechnics, or large-scale equipment must receive additional approval from the Tacoma Fire Department.

A film permit is not required for filming, videotaping, photographing, or otherwise preserving motion pictures when the activity is:

• Solely for private or family use;

• Conducted for use in a criminal investigation or civil proceeding;

• Conducted for news purposes; or

• Conducted for charitable purposes.

Please note: Even if an activity qualifies for one of the exemptions listed above, a permit may still be required if the filming impacts the public right-of-way, including streets, sidewalks, alleys, trails, or other public areas, or requires traffic control, parking restrictions, lane closures, exclusive use of public space, or other City services.

If you are unsure whether your project requires a permit, please contact the Film Production Coordinator before filming.