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Filming & Production

Filming & Production in Nashville, TN: What Residents Actually Need to Know

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

If you live in Nashville or are thinking about moving there, filming & production are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Nashville has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of filming & production, and some of them might surprise you.

Location Permits

Metro Nashville requires a director-approved license before you can photograph on government-owned property, with fees set case-by-case and sign-off from the property's board, the insurance department and a metropolitan attorney.

Key details: Section: Metropolitan Code § 2.62.010(C)(5). Who issues it: Director, Mayor's Office of Film & Special Events. Required sign-off: Property dept, insurance dept, metro attorney. Fee: Set case-by-case by the director. Applies to: Photography on Metro-owned property only.

No specific fine is written into this section, but shooting on metro property without a signed license lets the department in charge bar access, halt the shoot, and pursue standard trespass and liability claims.

Compared to other cities, Nashville takes a harder line on location permits. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Street Closures

Metro Nashville's mayor's office of film and special events can close streets for an approved filming or special event with police and public works sign-off, but closures lasting more than ten days require a Metropolitan Council resolution.

Key details: Authorizing office: Mayor's Office of Film and Special Events. Standard closure approval: Director, with PW and police sign-off. Closures over 10 days: Requires Metro Council resolution. Max fine per violation: $500 per day.

Filming or holding a special event without a permit, or violating a permit's terms, is a separate offense for each day the violation continues, punishable by a fine up to $500 per offense.

The Bottom Line

Nashville's filming & production rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Nashville is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Nashville's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.