Commercial filming
Anyone planning commercial filming activities on public spaces in Knox must apply for a permit.
Commercial filming includes:
- filming for television
- feature films
- advertising and television commercials
- documentaries
- music videos.
According to the Filming Approval Act 2014, commercial filming means 'recording images by film, video, digital or other technology to broadcast or publicly exhibit for commercial purposes but does not include photography'.
There are 2 categories of commercial filming:
- low-impact filming
- high-impact filming.
Permit fees
There is a non-refundable $284 application fee for all commercial filming permits. This includes permit applications for high-impact non-commercial projects.
Low-impact filming
Low-impact filming activities are small-scale productions that:
- involve 6 people or fewer, including cast and crew
- use only one camera, one tripod, and handheld audio equipment
- do not block roads, footpaths, or public access areas
- keep the public safe at all times.
Non-commercial projects do not have to pay a fee.
Examples of non-commercial projects include:
- student films
- not-for-profit short films about their organisation
Apply for a low-impact filming permit
If your filming activities are low impact, you do not need to fill out an application. Please email us at [email protected].
To approve a low-impact filming activity, we need 14 days' notice and proof of your current public liability insurance.
High-impact filming
If your filming activity is more than the low-impact filming classification, please submit your request for high-impact filming online.
Council needs at least 14 days’ notice to approve a high-impact filming activity.
Lodge a high-impact filming request
Permit fees
There is a $284 application fee for all high-impact filming permits. This includes permit applications for high-impact non-commercial projects.
Filming with a drone
We are not responsible for providing permission for the use of drones, but we recommend reading the information provided by Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
It is always important to comply with the relevant CASA requirements and be mindful of respecting personal privacy.
Photographing or filming a person without consent may breach Victorian State legislation.
Filming Approval Act 2014
The Filming Approval Act 2014 regulates commercial filming permits. We use this as a guide for the approval of filming requests.
The Act outlines the Victorian film-friendly guidelines for commercial filming.
Need help?
Email [email protected] and we will get back to you.
We aim to process your permit for filming within 10 business days.
Or call our Events team on 9298 8000.
