South Fulton, GA Filming & Production: Location Permits (2026)

Sec. 17-10003(a) makes it unlawful to use any public property or facility, or any private property, facility or residence whose use will affect public property, for filming without first applying for and obtaining a permit under Chapter 10 of Title 17. Permits are issued by the community and regulatory affairs director to the producer, are temporary, and never vest a permanent property right. Each permit specifies exactly what filming may occur at a particular location and time and authorizes only the 'elements,' meaning activities defined in the code, approved by the relevant department of purview; the location must satisfy the city's zoning requirements and have sufficient lawful parking, with administrative exceptions available through the director in consultation with departments of purview.

Sec. 17-10003(i) exempts five categories from the permit requirement: news media filming, personal or family video shot solely for private use, filming tied to an already city-permitted outdoor event, filming at a properly licensed studio, and a small business, by SBA size standards, filming a commercial at its own licensed location, so long as filming stays entirely inside the premises and doesn't interfere with traffic. Sec. 17-10005 requires applications at least five business days ahead of filming, or seven business days if traffic or public safety is affected, filed with the office of the film liaison, and the permit must be kept on site during the shoot along with any other required permits.