If you would like to film or take photographs for commercial purposes on Council-managed land and assets, you'll need to apply for a film production licence.
Activities that require a film production licence
- Feature films
- Short films
- Television shows
- Documentaries
- Commercials
- Still photography (excluding wedding photography*)
- Corporate videos
- Student films
- Social media content used for commercial purposes
*Wedding photos may be taken in the city's parks, gardens and beaches without a licence unless a reserved space is required.
Before you apply
Applications should be lodged a minimum of 7 business days before filming. Productions of a more complex nature – for example, requiring set builds or road closures – may require a longer timeframe.
For a faster and more convenient way to apply for a film production licence, register for My Account.
We recommend you check What's On Gold Coast and My Neighbourhood for any scheduled events, Council projects or other activities that may clash with your proposed date and location.
Consider requesting a weather hold date as part of your licence application in case of inclement weather during filming.
Please prepare the following documentation for your application to avoid processing delays:
- public liability insurance certificate of currency for a minimum AU$10 million. Students are usually covered by their institution's insurance
- a site plan showing the location of filming, unit base, essentials, set, any equipment or activity that may impact the public (for large productions only)
- a traffic management plan provided by a certified traffic management company if you need to close a road or footpath
- evidence of nil fee eligibility
How we can help
Our City Laws Approvals team is a 'one stop shop' for filming and photography applicants. We can liaise with stakeholders on your behalf and support you throughout the application and filming process.
We provide location assistance and financial incentives via our Film Attraction Program.
Permit fees
Film production licence fees are outlined in our current Register of Fees & Charges.
Location fees do not apply at most Council-managed open areas such as roads, parks and beaches. Fees may apply at Council-managed facilities such as our aquatic centres, sporting facilities or community centres.
A bond payment may be required if there is a risk of damage to public infrastructure.
We will advise you of applicable fees and bond payments on receipt of your licence application.
Your licence fee may be reduced to nil if you (the applicant) can demonstrate that you own, rent or lease a rateable property within the City of Gold Coast, or are a registered charity, voluntary sporting, community, religious or incorporated not-for-profit organisation.
For nil fee eligibility, you’ll need a copy of one of the following:
- signed lease agreement or details of property ownership
- ASIC documentation detailing principal place of business
- two bills (within last six months) detailing residential address, or
- registration with the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission (ACNC)
Apply for a film production and photography permit
Apply online using the button below. If you can’t submit your application online or have any questions, please call us on 07 5667 5987.
Apply for a film production licence
Amend, transfer, or cancel a current licence or permit
To change your business or contact information or request a change to conditions of approval use the Amend/licence permit form.
To cancel an existing licence/permit (no fees apply) use the Cancel a licence/permit form.
To apply for replacement approval documentation for your permit or licence (no fees apply) submit our Replace approval documentation form.