Filming on council land

Council monitors film production on council-controlled land to ensure the activities:

• are done safely
• do not have too much impact on residents, businesses and visitors and
• do not conflict with other events or activities.

Council’s Local Law outlines that an approval is required for filming, including the use of drones. This applies to:

• feature films
• television commercials
• television series
• reality and travel shows
• web series
• corporate videos
• still photography shots.

Approval is not needed for:

• filming on private land
• audio and visual recording of a wedding or other private celebration or event
• filming for a school/university project.

How to apply?

An application can be lodged through MyCouncil or by completing the application form and returning it to council.

The application form must be completed in full and submitted to Council no later than two (2) weeks prior to filming, and any advertising or promotion.

If you are submitting an application less than 2 weeks prior to filming please contact Council to ensure your application is reviewed as a priority.

• Commercial filming application form (DOCX, 263KB).

There are times when approvals may be required from other agencies. Council officers can provide advice on receiving an application. Some examples include:

• Drone use for filming and/or still photography may require approval confirmation from Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) in addition to approval by Council before commencement of event.
• Fireworks, pyrotechnics and special effects are approved by the Resources Safety and Health Queensland with notifications to the Queensland Police and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services.
• Road closures on a state-controlled road are approved by the Department of Transport and Main Roads.
• Building structures may require certification from a private building certifier in additional to approval by Council before construction starts.

Film Sunshine Coast

The Film Sunshine Coast website provides dedicated information and resources for film makers, TV producers, location managers and crew. It includes:

• a searchable location gallery and database
• permit information for both local and state government land
• a crew directory
• production resources
• crew accommodation
• location scouting and support
• industry research and connections.

The Sunshine Coast Screen Collective

The Sunshine Coast Screen Collective is the region's peak industry body. It fosters the advancement of the local screen industry by nurturing local talent. It also provides development opportunities including the Sunny Coast Showdown screen talent incubator program.

Production funding and incentives

For information on development and production funding, visit Screen Queensland.

Contact

Council's Economic Development Branch acts as a point of coordination for screen activity in the region. We:

• provide information and support to filmmakers and screen productions.
• connect productions with relevant local authorities, locations and local suppliers.
• are a Screen Queensland designated film-friendly council.
• help to grow and develop the local screen industry partnership with the Sunshine Coast Screen Collective.
• leverage opportunities in alignment with the Sunshine Coast Regional Economic Development Strategy 2013–2033.

Email the Economic Development Branch at ecdev@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.