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Some cities and municipalities offer free filming permits and exemptions from fees for the use of public space, which has become an important incentive for production companies, independent filmmakers, and audiovisual content creators. These types of facilities allow production teams to shoot on streets, squares, parks, and other urban spaces without incurring additional costs for official permits, which significantly reduces the overall production budget. In addition, by eliminating fees, authorities seek to encourage cultural and creative activity, promoting the city as an attractive location for filming movies, series, commercials, and educational or artistic projects.
The process generally involves applying for a filming permit, which details the location, duration of filming, type of equipment to be used, and safety measures to avoid affecting pedestrians or traffic. Although permits are free, applicants are usually required to comply with specific urban coexistence rules, such as temporary signage, access control, or cleaning up the site after filming. This approach also allows local authorities to keep track of audiovisual activity in the city, optimise coordination with the police, fire brigade and public services, and ensure that filming is carried out in an orderly and safe manner.
Several studies on the urban film industry indicate that the elimination of fees and the simplification of permits attract national and international productions, generating indirect economic benefits, such as spending in restaurants, transport, hotels and local services. It also contributes to the cultural dissemination of the city, showcasing its iconic spaces in films and series, which can reinforce its identity and tourist appeal. For these reasons, offering free permits and no charges for the use of public roads is considered an effective strategy for promoting audiovisual activity and strengthening the urban creative economy.