Filming on Public Highways in Devon

Welcome

Devon County Council welcomes contact about filming in the county.

Film and TV productions make positive contributions to the local economy and can generate tourism.

Devon is a popular location for filming and, while permits are not issued, the County Council as the highway authority will require information to meet legal responsibilities regarding the roads.

For information about desirable locations to film in Devon, contact www.visitdevon.co.uk or, you may wish to speak to support organisations such as ‘Screen Devon’ or ‘Creative England’.

If you wish to film in Plymouth or Torbay, you will need to contact those councils directly.

Important Rules & Guidelines

When filming in Devon, please follow these important requirements to ensure safety, minimise disruption and respect for the local community:

Do not block or obstruct any public highways which include roads, pavements, footpaths, footways, cycle paths, or public rights of way.
Ensure all equipment, vehicles and crew remain clear of these areas unless the council has granted prior permission.
Avoid distracting road users by activities such as placing bright lights, reflective surfaces, or equipment.
Avoid movements or noise in locations that could distract road users, especially near junctions, crossings or busy thoroughfares and filming at sensitive times such as peak hours and school times.
Notify residents, businesses, bus services and the emergency services who may be affected by the filming schedule, location or activity.
Protect the natural environment and do not disturb local wildlife, vegetation or waterways.
Dispose of waste responsibly and avoid using generators or vehicles that may cause pollution or damage to green spaces.
Obtain written permission from all relevant landowners or property managers before accessing private land for filming.
Provide clear contact details for a production liaison officer to handle any queries or concerns.
Maintain unobstructed access for emergency vehicles at all times including access roads.
Park all production vehicles legally in designated or pre-approved locations only. Avoid blocking public or private driveways, loading bays or disabled parking spaces.
All traffic signage must comply with the ‘Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions’ and is only to be placed by qualified staff (Chapter 8).
If manual traffic control is used, ensure operatives are approved under the Community Safety Accreditation Scheme (CSAS – Police Reform Act 2002).
Only the Council can remove or replace street furniture (fees will apply if required). Restore the highway to use immediately after filming.

Traffic Management

Filming can range from small crews with minimal impact to large productions needing road closures and parking restrictions. The goal is to keep disruption to a minimum.

Before considering filming on the highway you should check one.network to identify other highway activities in the area that may impact your filming schedule.

If you require restrictions, you may need to discuss your plans with a traffic management company to ensure the correct accreditations and qualifications are in place to meet requirements.

You must apply to the Council at least 12 weeks in advance to allow sufficient time to process legal orders.

Details on how to apply for temporary restrictions is located on the council’s website: https://devon.cc/special-events

Good practice sees all organisers engaging with the appropriate monthly District or City Council Safety Advisory Group meetings where the activity can be discussed. Organisers can be invited if deemed appropriate. Please see the links below:

If there is no traffic management requirement, please notify us of your intentions using the form linked below. This will enable us to coordinate with other activities on the highway.

Notice only events – Roads and transport

Please contact the Council for further information or guidance: csc.roads@devon.gov.uk

Insurance & Documentation

The production company must:

Provide proof of £5million public liability insurance on request.
Provide risk assessments and traffic management plans on request.
Arrange any necessary permits or documentation required for the filming.
Remove any on-site notices and signs used for the filming once concluded.
Manage any costs incurred for traffic management or locally agreed compensation.

Special Considerations

Separate permissions or authorities may be necessary from other organisations for:

Stunts, special effects, or staged crime scenes.
Weapons or use of emergency service uniforms.
Filming with animals or children.

Consultation

Notify affected residents and businesses at least 28 days before filming.
Arrange requirements to reduce impact on those most affected who have specific needs.
Contact the local Environmental Health if filming at night using lighting or if noise is likely.
Ensure a safe route is available to access residences if required, particularly for those with disabilities.

Drones

Devon County Council cannot provide formal permission to use drones.

Follow all relevant legislation and professional guidelines on the use of drones and filming together with the use of any footage. This relates to the use of footage which may include the identification of passers-by or vehicles for example.

Any drone use must comply with the Civil Aviation Authority Regulations. One should not launch from or landed in locations where it could distract or endanger road users.

Additional Notes

Plan for necessary permits from other agencies.
Use only agreed areas for any parking and catering.
Non-Disclosure Agreements require discussion in advance with the County Council’s legal unit.
Stick to all agreements as non-compliance may cancel any approvals provided.

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