Filming & Production in Washington (2026)
10 rules on the books across Washington, 6 cities and counties. Select a rule to read the full details.
Severity: Few Restrictions · Light Restrictions · Some Restrictions · Significant Restrictions · Heavy Restrictions
Location Permits
Permits required to film on public or private property, including application timelines, fees, insurance requirements, and neighborhood notification rules.
Auburn
Significant RestrictionsA film or movie shoot on Auburn's public property, streets, or parks needs a special event permit under ACC 2.23.040…
Read full rule →Renton
Significant RestrictionsFilming, recording, or photographing for commercial purposes in a Renton park requires prior written authorization from…
Read full rule →Tacoma
Significant RestrictionsFilming motion pictures or TV anywhere in Tacoma outside a studio requires a permit from the Film Production…
Read full rule →Spokane Valley
Some RestrictionsSpokane Valley classifies "filming/movie events" on public property as a special event under Chapter 5.15 SVMC. A…
Read full rule →Seattle
Few RestrictionsSeattle requires film permits for any production activity on public property at a flat rate of $25 per day regardless…
Read full rule →Production Noise
Noise restrictions for film and television productions, including generator limits, amplified sound, and permitted hours of operation in residential areas.
Street Closures
Rules for closing streets or sidewalks for filming, including advance notice requirements, alternative access provisions, and compensation to affected businesses.
Auburn
Significant RestrictionsFilming that closes a public street in Auburn needs a special event permit under ACC 2.23. The staff review committee…
Read full rule →Everett
Some RestrictionsEverett requires a special event permit before any street closure, including one for filming, and the application must…
Read full rule →Spokane Valley
Some RestrictionsWhen a Spokane Valley filming permit needs a street closure, SVMC § 5.15.090 lets the parks and recreation director…
Read full rule →Student Filming
Reduced-fee or fee-waiver permits available to students enrolled in accredited film programs, including documentation requirements and use limits.