Madrid is one of the most popular destinations for international productions, thanks to its vibrant and varied locations, plus its accessible filming regulations. However, understanding the local rules on permits and fees is key to avoiding issues during your shoot. Here’s everything you need to know based on your team size and the type of filming you plan to do.
Small Crews (under 15 People)
If you have a small crew (fewer than 15 people), Madrid allows you to film in public spaces without paying fees. You will just need to fill out an Announced Action form if you meet the following conditions:
- Conditions: You must not block streets, sidewalks, or disrupt pedestrian or vehicle traffic.
- Allowed equipment: Only handheld cameras and small tripods are allowed. No drones, cranes, or heavy lighting without prior authorization.
- Fees: Since no permit is required, there are no municipal fees involved.
This type of filming is perfect for smaller projects like documentaries, interviews, or guerrilla-style shooting. However, if you’re planning on using more equipment or shooting in busy areas, our Spainfixer team can help you manage all the necessary permits and avoid any issues.
Larger Crews (0ver 15 People)
For filming with larger crews (more than 15 people) or those requiring bigger equipment, an official permit from Madrid’s city hall is mandatory.
- Type of permit: The permit for public space occupation is requested through the Madrid Film Office. Depending on the location, time, and equipment involved, processing can take 3-7 working days.
- Fees: Fees vary depending on the location and the equipment used. For example, shooting on major streets like Gran Vía can cost between €100 and €400 per day, depending on the scale of your production. Other locations may have reduced rates.
If your shoot impacts pedestrian or vehicle traffic, police services may also be required, adding to the overall costs.
Our Spainfixer team specializes in securing permits for filming in Madrid. We handle all the administrative processes, ensuring everything is in place before your shoot begins.
Filming with drones
If you plan to use drones for your production in Madrid, you will need not only a municipal permit but also authorization from Spain’s Civil Aviation Authority (AESA). Areas near airports, sensitive zones, or the city center are often restricted.
- Additional fees: Drone-related fees vary depending on the flying zone and drone size. Processing can take up to 15 days.
A knowledgeable Fixer in Spain can help you navigate these specific requirements quickly, ensuring compliance with all current regulations.
Filming in Iconic or Private Locations
For filming in iconic locations such as museums, parks, or monuments (e.g., Retiro Park or the Royal Palace), you’ll need additional permission from the governing entities. These areas often involve extra fees and specific rules about crew size and filming hours.
- Estimated fees: Fees for filming in such high-profile areas can range from €500 per day or more, depending on the exclusivity of the site.
Having an experienced team to manage these permissions is crucial for avoiding delays or unexpected problems. Our Spainfixer team takes care of the entire logistics and negotiations with the authorities so you can focus on your production.
