Filming in Westminster: permits and fees
Westminster covers central London's most-requested streets and public spaces with fixed fee schedules and a 24-hour filming enquiry service.
Who issues permits
Westminster’s City Operations team handles filming permits. Film London’s London Filming Partnership coordinates across the borough, but productions must hold a Westminster-specific permit for any shoot on the borough’s land.
Process
Apply via the Westminster filming permit portal with at least five working days notice for standard shoots. Road closures and large-crew shoots require a minimum of three weeks. Westminster operates a 24-hour filming enquiry line for urgent enquiries.
Fees
Westminster publishes a fee schedule. Street permits start from around £100 for a half-day. Parking bay suspensions are charged per bay per day. High-demand locations such as Whitehall and Parliament Square attract premium fees. Insurance minimum is £10 million public liability for Westminster shoots.
What’s covered
All Westminster streets and public footways, council-managed parks and squares including Parliament Square, Leicester Square, and the Covent Garden piazza area. Popular locations include Whitehall, Carnaby Street, and the streets of Mayfair and Soho.
Typical restrictions
Trafalgar Square is managed by the Mayor of London (GLA), not Westminster. The Mall, Whitehall approach, and areas near the Palace of Westminster involve multiple authorities. Night filming in central Westminster requires additional approval beyond standard permit.
Contact
Apply on the Westminster City Council website → westminster.gov.uk