Filming in Cardiff: permits and fees
Cardiff Film Office provides single-point contact for productions filming in the Welsh capital, covering council streets, parks, and civic buildings.
Who issues permits
Cardiff Film Office issues permits for council-controlled streets, parks, and civic buildings. For wider Wales filming, Film Cymru Wales can connect productions to other local authorities. Productions working on Cardiff Castle should note the castle is managed by Museums Cardiff, not the Film Office.
Process
Contact Cardiff Film Office as the first step, regardless of the specific location. The team assesses which departments need involvement and whether permissions from other organisations (such as Museums Cardiff, Cardiff Harbour Authority, or Natural Resources Wales) are also needed. Allow at least two weeks for standard permits; four to six weeks for road closures or multi-site productions.
Fees
Cardiff Film Office’s advisory service is free. Council permits carry admin fees. Location hire for specific council assets is negotiated directly. Road closure costs are set by the highways team.
What’s covered
Council-controlled streets, Cardiff Bay waterfront public areas, Bute Park, Roath Park, council civic buildings including Cardiff City Hall and the National Museum Cardiff exterior (the museum manages its own grounds), public squares.
Typical restrictions
Cardiff City Hall and the Civic Centre have specific protocols. Cardiff Castle has entirely separate management through Museums Cardiff. Night shoots in residential areas of Pontcanna and Roath require community notification. Standard noise and insurance requirements apply.
Contact
Apply on the Cardiff Film Office website → cardiff.gov.uk