Guidelines for filming
Before you get in touch, please read the advice below. We’ve included links to several documents that provide more detail about filming, if you need it.
Filming on location
There are seven types of filming on location that will likely require a police presence. These are filming:
- with weapons
- with replica, imitation or airsoft firearms
- with actors or extras in police uniform
- with replica or fake police vehicles
- scenes of crime or violence
- real or perceived nudity
- with issues of public safety
Download our Guidelines for filming on location in London (see below) for more information on each.
Filming on the move
The Met Film Unit is the single point of contact for advising, managing and supervising the film industry when filming on the move on the roads in London’s 32 boroughs (the City of London isn't included).
We can:
- advise productions on the most effective way to film on the move
- provide 'no objections' notices
- let local authorities know about your shoot
- deploy officers to supervise and assist where needed
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) information sheet, Safe filming and recording involving vehicles is a useful read.
Download our Guidelines for filming on the move in London (see below) for more information.
Filming stunts, fights or other hazardous activities
The concern when filming scenes involving danger or violence is that members of the public don't realise that filming is taking place, so they:
- think the event is ‘real’
- either call the police or intervene themselves
For this reason, you must consult us in advance.
As a general guideline, please make sure:
- film crew wear high-vis clothing so it's obvious to the public that filming is taking place
- you use signs to tell the public the nature of the filming
- you leaflet local residents so they're forewarned of the filming
- you provide enough stewards to reassure the public and to preserve the security and safety of the film set
For more information read the HSE information sheet Stunts, fights and other hazardous production activities.
Using firearms and other weapons
You and your production must:
- consult the Met Film Unit in advance of any filming with replica, imitation or airsoft firearms
- get a film weapon 'CAD' number from the Met Film Unit
- tell the Met Film Unit and Borough Film Service (BFS) of any activity involving weapons to prevent the emergency deployment of armed police
- read our Guidance for scenes involving weapons (see below) to make sure you notify the right authorities well in advance
Our Guidelines for filming on location in London (see below) also has a useful section on the use of firearms on film shoots.