As a general rule in the city of Hamburg and in the state Schleswig-Holstein, shooting permits are involved when equipment is put up and third parties are affected. Permits for shooting on public streets and the blocking of parking areas for production vehicles are issued by the respective police stations. Permits for public footpaths, parks and other public grounds are issued by the respective civil engineering authorities of the different districts. The permissions are issued for the laying of cables, installation of tracks, dollies, lighting equipment, camera cranes and other technical equipment and for the partial or entire blocking off of areas. Please find contacts in our Production Guide section.

When foreign film teams come to Hamburg to film a documentary or documentary style with only a small crew of three to five persons, they do not require any shooting permit for public grounds like streets, footpaths and squares, as long as they do not put up more equipment than a usual tripod with camera and do not obstruct or disturb anybody.

Please note that train stations and shopping malls are run by private business and that therefore it is necessary to get permissions by the respective managers, if you want to shoot in these locations and be on the safe side.

The police´s Press Office supplies police officers, police cars and relevant props (no weapons). The Fire Department´s Press Office provides firemen and fire engines. These services are liable to a charge.

If you need any specific contacts for your shooting days in Hamburg or have further questions please do not hesitate to contact us.
We will be glad to help you!