York County, VA Filming & Production: Location Permits (2026)

Section 17-75 of the York County Code requires written permission from the appropriate governing official before any motion picture, television production or sound track involving professional casts, settings or crews can be filmed in a county public area, exempting only bona fide newsreel or news television personnel. The same section separately bans photographing articles of commerce or models for commercial advertising in a public area without a written permit. Sec. 17-104(o) lists "taking photographs or making motion pictures for commercial purposes" among the enumerated activities that trigger Chapter 17's permit process.

Applicants file a written application under Sec. 17-105 disclosing the applicant's name and address, any sponsoring person or organization, the requested day and hours, the nature of the activity, the specific public area sought, an estimated attendance, and any other information the governing official reasonably needs. Sec. 17-106 requires the official to confirm the filming will not unreasonably interfere with the public's enjoyment of the area or other scheduled activities, fits the facility applied for, will not incite violence or disorderly conduct, and will not create unusual, extraordinary or burdensome police expense.

Sec. 17-107 authorizes uniform user fees, maintenance fees and security deposits. Sec. 17-108 requires a decision, or written reasons for refusal, within 12 days of the application; a denied applicant may appeal in writing within 12 days, with the governing authority ruling within 15 days. A permit may be revoked for a rule violation, safety hazard, or good cause under Sec. 17-110.