Film Licenses & Permits
Filming in the City of San Rafael may require approvals from multiple City departments, depending on the scope and location of your production. Please review the following steps carefully to ensure compliance before filming begins.
1. Obtain a Special Event Permit for Filming
All film shoots in San Rafael require a City of San Rafael Special Event Permit for Filming. Apply online through the City’s permitting portal:
https://cityofsanrafaelca.portal.opengov.com/
2. Provide a Parking Plan for Crew Vehicles
If your production involves parking crew vehicles or equipment trucks on City streets:
- You must reserve parking spaces through the City’s Parking Services Division.
- “No Parking” signs and meter bags are available through Parking Services.
- Signs must be posted and verified by a Parking Services team member at least 72 hours before filming begins.
More information is available here: https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/meter-bags-no-parking-signs-2/
3. Obtain a Business License for Filming
All film productions must have a valid City of San Rafael business license specific to filming. Apply and pay online here: https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/film-shoot-business-license/
When completing your application:
- Select “Film Crew/Private Property” or “Film Crew/Public Property” under Business Type.
- Under “Detailed Description of Business,” indicate how many days you will film on public and private property.
- Upload a Certificate of Insurance with General liability coverage of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate, and an endorsement naming the City of San Rafael as an additional insured.
4. Obtain an Encroachment Permit (if using public right-of-way)
An Encroachment Permit is required if your filming involves:
- Use of public streets, sidewalks, or parking spaces
- Placement of equipment or props in the public right-of-way
- Temporary traffic control or intermittent closures
Apply online here: https://cityofsanrafaelca.portal.opengov.com/
5. Coordinate Road Closures or Traffic Control
If your production will require road closures or traffic control, please contact: Sullina D. Smith, Senior Management Analyst at (415) 451-2446 or sullina.smith@cityofsanrafael.org.
6. Notify Nearby Residents (for residential filming)
If you are filming in a residential neighborhood, you must notify all residents and property owners who may be affected by the production in advance of the filming schedule, street impacts, and expected activity levels.