The San Diego Film Office’s film registration process is quick and simple. There are no fees to register your film or still photography production—whether it is a feature film or print photography shoot – on City public property, and our hands-on, dedicated staff will assist you along the way.

To start the process, thoroughly review the Filming Production Guide. Then, submit your application via the Filming Authorization Application System at least three business days in advance of your shoot (two weeks if your shoot involves any water contact, vehicles on the beach, smoke effects, pyrotechnics/open flame, or other effects; one week if filming involves sidewalk, lane, alley or street closures or intermittent traffic control (ITC), gunfire or weapons, simulated confrontation or fight scenes, “cloned”/faux military or law enforcement personnel/vehicles, recreation of a crime, the use of UAS, or other elements that may pose public safety risks).

Due to the popularity of our locations, we strongly advise you to contact our office as soon as possible to ensure your requested filming location(s) is available. Call the San Diego Film Office at 619-685-1340 to discuss the details of your shoot in advance, including locations, timeline and other details.

Forms

• Good Neighbor Notification Template Form
• Filming Insurance Requirements – Sample Certificate and Policy Endorsement
• SDPD Movie Detail Cost Estimate Form
• SDPD Movie Detail Staffing Request Form

Student Filmmakers

The San Diego Film Office recognizes that student filmmakers’ contributions today have the potential to shape the architecture of the film industry in the future. Our filming authorization process is fee-free, making it simple and affordable to host your production on City public property, while working with our hands-on staff to ensure your production is meeting, if not exceeding, the needs of the surrounding community and public safety.

Contact the San Diego Film Office to start the process at 619-685-1340 or Film@SanDiego.gov.

Drone Filming

The use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS, commonly referred to as drones) for commercial filming in the City of San Diego is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. For a production to be considered for filming authorization involving a drone, please submit the necessary documentation outlined on the UAS Filming on City Property Checklist to Film@SanDiego.gov.