Filming & Production in Berkeley, CA (2026)
3 verified filming & production rules for Berkeley, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Location Permits
BMC Chapter 9.78 requires a city film permit for any filming on Berkeley streets, sidewalks, or parks. Applications are made to the City Manager (in practice, the Berkeley Film Office at Visit Berkeley) and lead times depend on the production's impact on public rights-of-way.
Berkeley Film & Photography Permits (BMC 9.78)
Some RestrictionsProduction Noise
Filming productions in Berkeley must comply with the BMC 9.78 permit conditions plus the city's noise ordinance (BMC Ch. 13.40) and fire/explosives code (BMC Title 19). Pyrotechnics and special-effects loud noise require an enhanced 7-business-day permit timeline under BMC 9.78.030 and on-site fire-department approval.
Berkeley Production Noise & Pyrotechnics Rules
Some RestrictionsStreet Closures
Closing or partially closing a Berkeley street for filming requires an extended BMC 9.78 permit lead time and coordination with Berkeley Public Works and Police. Major or collector street closures, and any rerouting of AC Transit service, need at least 7 business days' notice; minor street closures need at least 3 business days.
Berkeley Film Permit Street Closures & Traffic Control
Some RestrictionsLooking for Alameda County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Berkeley city rules.
Filming & Production in Alameda County →