filming permits
There is no central authority which issues filming permits at the national level in the Czech Republic. Film permits are issued by municipal authorities and other local administrative bodies. Requirements vary, depending on the location. Permit applications must be in Czech. Filmmakers shooting on private property must also deal directly with the property owners.
Prague is the top film and tourist destination in the Czech Republic. The capital city is divided into numbered administrative districts, with Prague 1, Prague 2 and Prague 3 being the most central. You will need a permit from each district in which you plan to shoot.
The historical center of the city, located in Prague 1, is the area most visited by filmmakers and by tourists. To shoot in Prague 1, you must apply for a permit at least 10 working days prior to the filming. The application can be processed in less than five days but it will be subject to an extra fee.
There are two basic kinds of shooting permits in Prague 1. A so-called documentary filming permit allows you to film in any public space within the district, provided that you use no more than five square meters (53.8 square feet) at a time, and do not block traffic or pedestrians. This fee is CZK 2,000 per day, plus a CZK 200 application fee.
The standard filming permit applies to films, commercials and other projects which require more than five square meters. The fee is CZK 20 per square meter per day, plus a CZK 200 application fee. Large-scale productions may be subject to an additional fee of CZK 10 per square meter per day if they occupy more than 1,000 square meters, shoot three or more consecutive days on the same location, significantly affect public transport, use special effects, or film at night. Other conditions may apply.
Some locations in Prague — such as Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square and all parks in the city — are subject to special conditions and fees. Most productions will also need a permit from Prague's road and street authority, Technická správa komunikací (TSK).
The Czech Film Commission does not issue filming permits but we can provide further information about your chosen locations and the relevant authorities. We can also help you find experienced location scouts and managers, production assistants and production service companies who can arrange permits for you.
