{"id":34364,"date":"2025-06-13T12:37:27","date_gmt":"2025-06-13T10:37:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sfc.com\/?p=34364"},"modified":"2025-07-31T11:26:45","modified_gmt":"2025-07-31T09:26:45","slug":"spain-filming-permits","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/spainfilmcommission.com\/en\/blog\/spain-filming-permits\/","title":{"rendered":"Filming permits in Spain: process, timelines and contacts"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Obtaining filming permits in a foreign country can be a bureaucratic maze. In Spain, every audiovisual production, whether a film or a series, requires a clear understanding of the processes and local regulations. This essential guide breaks down everything you need to know to secure your permits and film without setbacks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When is a filming permit required?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In Spain, a filming permit is required when a public space<\/strong> is going to be used for the recording of audiovisual works, whether films, series, commercials, or any type of production that involves the use of public roads.
Filming permits are generally managed by Town Hall<\/strong>s and are necessary to ensure that filming does not hinder traffic or affect people\u2019s safety, as well as to regulate the use of public and private spaces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Who issues filming permits in Spain?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The issuance of filming permits in Spain<\/strong> depends mainly on the specific location chosen for the occasion. Who should you request the permit from? Let\u2019s take a look at the different entities that issue filming permits in this beautiful country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

National agencies and state-owned locations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For foreign films and film co-productions, the Institute of Cinematography and Audiovisual Arts (ICAA)<\/strong>, attached to the Ministry of Culture and Sport, can grant filming licenses. If you want to shoot in Spain, you may need to go to this centralized agency. However, in some cases, the management of permits may be shared, depending on the nature of the film and the type of location needed.
If the recording requires road closures or traffic regulation, a permit from the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT)<\/strong> will be required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Regional film commissions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

In Spain, the territory is divided into what is known as \u201cAutonomous Communities<\/strong>.\u201d Each of these regions has a certain degree of self-government, allowing them to issue filming permits. Depending on the location and type of shoot, specific permits from the Autonomous Community where the scenes are going to be filmed may be required. A good example is Film Madrid<\/strong>, an agency that manages some permits and provides information on the regulations for filming in the Community of Madrid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Municipal and town hall permits<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Sometimes, foreign filmmakers must contact the corresponding Town Hal<\/strong>l to film in Spain. These are permits generally required when public roads are going to be occupied or when municipal public spaces are going to be used.
At the local level, you may also need to request permission to film from the relevant traffic authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Permit application process and timelines<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Normally, a notice period is required to apply for permits, which may vary depending on the complexity of the shoot and the location. In any case, it is important to comply with all regulations<\/a> to avoid problems and ensure the successful completion of the filming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Typical processing times<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The usual processing time to obtain a filming permit in Spain varies, but it is generally recommended to apply at least 15 working days in advance for shoots on public roads<\/strong>, park and garden areas, or if special district permits are required. For simpler cases on public roads, it can be processed with 7 working days\u2019 notice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fast-track options and fees<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

In Spain, there is no fee that allows filming permits to be expedited. Instead, fees vary depending on the location and type of production, but generally include an administrative fee for the application and another for the occupation of public roads<\/strong>. The administrative fee can be around 48.65 euros for the authorization, according to the Madrid City Council<\/a>. For the occupation of public roads, a fee is usually applied per square meter or per linear meter per day. Additionally, there may be extra fees for services such as local police support or street closures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Required documents and insurance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

To apply for a filming permit, you will need a formal application, which can be electronic or in person, along with documentation including civil liability insurance and, in some cases, a map of the filming area and vehicle parking. Usually, these are the necessary documents:<\/p>\n\n\n\n