Information for residents

What does the Richmond Film Office do?

Every London borough has an officer responsible for facilitating and regulating filming in their local area.  This includes all filming associated with television, feature films, documentaries and commercials, together with still shoots.  The Richmond Film Office endeavours to ensure that filming in the borough of Richmond complies with regulations and follows the Film Maker's Code of Practice, as drawn up by Film London.  It is important to remember that Richmond Council can neither grant nor refuse permission to film on private property.  Our chief goal is to advise film and production companies to ensure that disturbance to residents and traders in the area is kept to a minimum

How does Richmond's Film Office operate?

When a request to film in the borough is received, the general procedure we follow includes:

• Assessing filming requests and applications
• Site inspections with the production company and, if required, local Police
• Obtaining necessary documents including Public Liability Insurance and Risk Assessments
• Liaising and working closely with council departments that may include Parking, Parks and Open spaces and Property Services
• Ensuring that production and film companies liaise closely with residents and traders in the vicinity of the filming.  Letters to residents and traders informing them of proposed filming must be distributed, ideally with 7 days notice. This letter must include contact details for both Richmond Film Office and the production company.

Does filming benefit the local community?

Yes it does. According to Film London, every £1 spent on a location generates approximately £2.50 for the local economy. The revenue  that the Council receives covers the costs of running the Film Office and the remaining funds go back into the Council 'pot' to ultimately reduce residents' council tax.

Who do I contact if I have any questions about filming in Richmond?

For the majority of residents and traders, filming is accepted in the Borough; however at times it does disrupt daily routines.  It is important to remember that the main goal of the Richmond Film Office is to minimise this disturbance.