Laredo, TX Filming & Production: Location Permits (2026)

Under Sec. 18-49 through 18-58 of the Laredo Code of Ordinances, adopted by Ordinance No. 2025-O-192 on October 6, 2025, any production, defined as a commercial film, television project, documentary, commercial advertisement, or digital media project, must secure a film permit before filming on city property or on private property that affects the public. The Laredo Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), operating under the city manager's supervision, administers the program, coordinates with police, fire, and traffic departments, and enforces the article. Applicants must file a complete application at least 30 business days before the first shoot date, including a project summary and schedule, a site map, insurance certificates, an executed hold harmless agreement, and a notification plan for affected residents and businesses; applications filed fewer than 10 business days ahead draw a $100 late surcharge and risk denial.

Non-refundable fees include a $150 standard application fee ($25 for local nonprofits), a permit fee scaled to production size ($250 for commercial or short projects, $500 for standard productions such as episodic TV or web series, and $1,000 for major productions like feature films), and daily city-property-use fees of $500 for total or disruptive use and $200 for partial, nondisruptive use of a public building, park, right-of-way, or public area. City personnel and equipment are billed at prevailing rates, including overtime for police or fire officers and barricades, and the city may require a damage or security deposit sized to the risk and location.

The city manager or designee may impose reasonable conditions to protect public safety and minimize disruption, and permit holders must notify residents and businesses within a 300-foot radius at least five business days before filming begins.