San Francisco, CA Filming & Production: Street Closures (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing code
- Transportation Code Article 6
- Standard notice
- 30 calendar days
- Film exception filer
- Film Commission
- Hearing notice for film permits
- 72 hours minimum
- Reviewing body
- ISCOTT
Summary
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.
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 is adequate time available for the Director to conduct the required public hearing and post notice of the scheduled hearing at least 72 hours in advance of the hearing. The Film Commission (or the film company on whose behalf the application was made) shall (1) notify residents, merchants, and other occupants of the public street(s) to be closed of the dates proposed for street closure, and (2) notify affected City departments, including the Police Department and the Department of Public Works. (Added by Ord. 121-26, File No. 260449, App. 6/26/2026, Eff. 7/27/2026) CODIFICATION NOTE
1. So in Ord. 121-26.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-96: Codes: last updated to include changes made by legislation through Ordinance 133-26, File No. 260686, approved July 23, 2026, effective August 23, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Street closures for film production are governed by the Transportation Code, not the Police Code's film-company chapter. Under Transportation Code Article 6, any temporary street use or occupancy normally requires an application filed at least 30 calendar days ahead with the SFMTA for ISCOTT review. Section 6.3.1(d) creates a film-specific exception: the Film Commission may file on behalf of a production company for closures scheduled fewer than 30 days out, if the Director has adequate time to hold the required public hearing and post 72 hours' notice, and the Film Commission or production company notifies affected residents, merchants and City departments.
Violations & Fines
Occupying or closing a public street without an approved ISCOTT/MTA permit is enforceable by the Police Department and Department of Public Works; ISCOTT may deny, condition or revoke permission for noncompliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who applies for a film street closure in San Francisco?
Can a film shoot get a street closure on short notice?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Francisco
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