Bristol is home to several colleges and universities which offer filmmaking courses. We are keen to support the next generation of filmmaking talent in the city.
For all filming (apart from testing of equipment), student filmmakers will need to apply for a film permit. (This does not usually apply to journalism students, but there are exceptions. Please see our Student Guidelines for more details.)
The application will ask for public liability insurance (your college/university will have this), a risk assessment and description of the scene to be filmed.
Please note: We need five working days to process permits. The more detail you include, the quicker your application will be processed.
Restrictions on student filming
Please be advised that we cannot permit filming of violence, weapons or behaviour which could be seen as anti-social on public land. An extensive – but not exhaustive – list of what is not permitted can be found in our Student Guidelines.
Please be advised that the locations listed on our Locations Database are not suitable for students as all properties are owned privately.
Certain areas of the city can be associated with anti-social behaviour, especially in the evenings. We will seek guidance from the Police on applications and if necessary we will direct you to locate another area or change the schedule of your shoot. These restrictions are to keep you safe, to ensure the public are reassured, and to maintain a film friendly city. Failure to adhere to these restrictions could result with a fine and no future permits issued.
To prevent any delays on your projects, please make sure you read and adhere to our Student Guidelines.