Filming & Production in San Francisco, CA (2026)
2 verified filming & production rules for San Francisco, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Location Permits
Commercial still photography in San Francisco counts as "film production" under the Film Commission ordinance, requiring a use contract and a $200-a-day city use fee.
SF Still Photography Permit Rules
Some RestrictionsSan Francisco, CA, Administrative Code §§ 57.1, 57.5(c)(1)
“Film” means feature motion pictures, video tapes, television programs, commercials, still photography, documentaries, travelogues, music videos, web videos, web series, and other visual art forms... The use fees are as follows: (1) Still photography: $200 a day.
Street Closures
Film productions closing San Francisco streets apply through the Film Commission and ISCOTT under the Transportation Code, with a special exception letting filming crews apply on shorter notice than other events.
San Francisco Film Street Closure Permits
Some RestrictionsSan Francisco Transportation Code, Division I, Article 6, § 6.3.1(d)
Exception; Film Permits. The Film Commission, or other successor commission or office, may file with the Director an application on behalf of a film or other video production company (which company shall be responsible for the payment of all applicable fees) for a proposed temporary use or occupancy scheduled to occur fewer than 30 calendar days after the application date, provided that there i...