Below you will find information on various aspects to consider when filming or conducting a photo shoot in the city of Barcelona.

AUTHORIZATIONS

In order to carry out filming or a photo shooting in public spaces in the city of Barcelona, or to indirectly affect any public space (e.g., placing equipment, blocking pathways, reserving areas, etc.) for filming or a photographic session, it is always necessary to obtain authorization.
This authorization must be issued by the relevant authority responsible for managing each space.
Please refer to the specific requirements for each space:

• Permits for Public Roads (Streets and Squares)
• Permits for Parks, Gardens, Beaches, and breakwaters
• Permits for Municipal Markets
• Permits for Cemeteries
• Permits for Municipal Facilities
• Permits for La Model

RESERVING SPACE FOR PARKING

If your filming or photo shooting requires blocking parking spots for your technical vehicles or for camera shot, you will need to:

• Apply for a public space occupation license for filming that authorizes it. Check here how to apply for it.
• Comply with the protocol for placing signage, fences, notifying the towing service, etc., which can be found here (only in Catalan).
• The physical blocking must be made by you, using your own means (or by contracting a specialized company, a list of which can be found here).

Advice:
We recommend checking in advance the recommendations and limitations of each district regarding the type of parking. You can find this information in the list of recommendations and limitations in the Downloads section of this website.

INSURANCE

Any individual or legal entity carrying out an activity in public spaces (such as filming or photo shooting) must have a civil liability insurance policy to cover any claims for damages caused to third parties, both personal and material. The policy must be up to date.

You may be asked to present the insurance policy and proof of payment when applying for filming authorization.

URBAN FURNITURE

All elements of urban furniture in public spaces are managed by specific departments (lighting, bins, lampposts, benches, trash cans). Any modification or movement of these elements requires prior authorization from the responsible department. If your filming requires any of these modifications, please consult us on how to proceed.

GOOD PRACTICES

Filming and photo shootings in the city should be as non-invasive as possible. All equipment should be concentrated in one place and monitored at all times by production staff.

The aim should be to remain as discreet as possible so that citizens can continue with their daily routines: avoid shouting, be courteous with affected neighbors and pedestrians, and respect residents’ rest if filming takes place at night.

Technical equipment should always be properly protected, signposted, and monitored.

Parking spots should be cleared as quickly as possible, and no spots should be blocked without being used. Passenger vehicles or vans cannot be parked in spots authorised for technical vehicles (vans and trucks).

When filming is finished, everything must be returned to the same condition as before, or better if possible. Ensure that everything is clean and that no fences, tape, or materials are left in the area.

Barcelona promotes sustainable filming. We recommend consulting the specific section dedicated to this topic on this website > Sustainability Section.