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When planning to shoot in public spaces or municipal facilities, it is essential to comply with legal obligations. In Lisbon, the occupation of these spaces is subject to licensing or prior notification.
In this article, we list the key points that production professionals should consider:
There are some exceptions that exempt productions from obtaining formal licensing. Activities that do not require authorization include:
Policing is mandatory in all filming and photography sessions involving the occupation of public space, to ensure pedestrian and traffic safety:
Professionals should contact Municipal Police (PM) Or the Public Security Police/Traffic Division (PSP-DT) to request these services, which have associated costs, even if the project is exempt from municipal fees.
If the logistical needs of the production require fire prevention, special effects, among others, the Firemen's Department should be contacted.
Special Noise License
Productions that generate harmful or disruptive noises need to obtain a Special Noise License (LER).
Parking
5 parking spaces will be reserved per shooting location. In exceptional cases, when duly justified in the descriptive memory, the reservation of additional spaces may be authorized. In this case, the request must be submitted 10 business days in advance.
As for parking charged by EMEL, once the filming or photography license is issued, payment for the occupancy of the charged places must be made at the EMEL store.
Temporary Traffic Restrictions
If necessary, licenses must also be requested for:
If the weather conditions prevent the scheduled filming or photography session to take place, the applicant can request to reschedule the session with CML, within no less than 3 business days.
In specific cases, such as for productions promoted by non-profit entities or educational establishments, there may be exemption from municipal fees and discounts for the rental of municipal spaces and equipment.
Productions of cultural interest or that promote the city of Lisbon and present great artistic and technical value may also be eligible for the following supports:
Requests for these supports and/or fee exemptions must be submitted 15 business days before the submission date of the filming or photography request. These should be presented with a project dossier containing the following detailed information:
The Lisbon Film Commission will then analyze the potential cultural and artistic interest of the project.
The granting of this support requires:
The form and necessary documents must be sent by e-mail to iniciativa.lisboa@cm-lisboa.pt. In-person service is also available at the Lisboa Saldanha store.
The license is issued after payment of applicable fees.
Administrative fee:
439.85€/per request
Occupation of public space (including the entire film set, cleaning area, and technical parking):
Filming in municipal spaces or equipment:
145.04€/per hour, excluding VAT
The price may exceed this amount, based on case-by-case assessment and price proposal.
Means of payment:
ATM
The decision and issuance are made within 3 business days, starting from the first business day after the request is submitted. The license is then sent to the applicant's email.
To ensure a smooth production in compliance with the law, it is essential that all filming and photography professionals are aware of their obligations and rights. The Lisbon City Council offers clear regulations and various supports that can benefit many productions. However, it is crucial to start the application process well in advance to avoid surprises and ensure that all licenses and supports are issued on time.
If you are looking for a filming or photography location in Lisbon, whether municipal or private, count on Belmira to assist you in all stages.
We have an extensive portfolio of hand-picked locations and offer a personalized service tailored to your project.
Information: Link
Photography: Fred Flade
