Filming & Production in Austin, TX (2026)
3 verified filming & production rules for Austin, Texas, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Location Permits
All commercial, student, and mobile filming in Austin's public right-of-way (streets, sidewalks, alleys) requires a film permit from the Office of Special Events (OSE) in the Transportation and Public Works Department. There is no cost for a right-of-way film permit. Applications must be submitted via the AB+C Portal at least 3 business days before filming. Commercial general liability insurance of at least $500,000 per occurrence is required.
Austin Film Location Permits
Some RestrictionsAustin Film Production - City Permits: Types of Permits (Right-of-Way, City Parks); Work Exempt from Building Permits
Does my film require a permit? The City does not require a universal film permit to film in Austin; however, specific permits may be required if a production occurs in the right-of-way, in a City park, at the airport, or under other circumstances. [...] Right-of-Way - The City requires a permit for temporary use of the right-of-way (street, sidewalk, alley or parking lane) for all film-making a...
Production Noise
Film productions in Austin must comply with the city's noise ordinance (Chapter 9-2 of the Code of Ordinances). Unreasonable noises are strictly prohibited between 10:30 PM and 7:00 AM. Productions using generators, amplified sound, pyrotechnics, or other noise-generating equipment during permitted hours must still keep noise at reasonable levels. Noise waivers may be available through the special events permitting process for productions requiring overnight filming.
Austin Film Production Noise Restrictions
Some RestrictionsStreet Closures
Film productions requiring street closures in Austin must obtain a permit from the Office of Special Events and submit a Traffic Control Plan. Police assistance is mandatory for any road closure. Applications must include the specific streets, dates, and hours of requested closures. There is no fee for the film permit itself, but police assistance and traffic control costs are the production's responsibility.
Austin Film Production Street Closure Permits
Some RestrictionsLooking for Travis County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Austin city rules.
Filming & Production in Travis County →