Commercial or professional filming or still photography that takes place within a City of Bellevue park, trail, or open space requires a permit issued by the Parks & Community Services Department. We strongly advise you to reach out to the Parks Department as soon as possible to ensure your requested filming location(s) are available.
Most Parks Film/Photo permits can be issued with a minimum of five days’ notice; however, the amount of time needed will depend on the extent of use. Permits will be issued following receipt of payment and will specify day, time, and location for use of the scheduled park facility. The remainder of the park will remain open for use by the public. Film/Photo Permit fees are dependent on the duration of use and the addition of City support services.
NEW! Online Parks Film/Photo Application
With our new online system, you can submit and update information, track the status of your application, and print a copy of your final application all from the convenience of your home or office, 24 hours a day.
Insurance Requirements
Requestor must provide a certificate of insurance that meets the City of Bellevue requirements.
- The City of Bellevue, its officials, employees and volunteers, PO Box 90012, Bellevue, WA 98009-9012 must be listed as Certificate Holder and named Additional Insured. Minimum amount of General Liability is $1,000,000 per occurrence, $2,000,000 aggregate.
- A minimum of $1,000,000 Automobile Liability is required for company vehicle access beyond the parking lot.
Damage Deposit: May be collected depending upon scope of use.
Park Availability/Hours: Parks are generally available to schedule from 7 a.m. to dusk. Scheduled time must include arrival time of equipment, set-up, actual film/photo shoot time, break-down, and departure.
Fees and Charges
All fees and charges are due in advance of issuing a permit for park use.
- Film/Photo Application Fee: $50 per day
- Commercial Use Fees: Fees are the minimum on a sliding scale based on the type of production:
- Still Photography/Training films/Industrial films, etc.: $108 per day per site, $55 per half day per site
- Broadcast, Film, TV, Commercial, etc.: $320 per day per site, $160 per half day per site
- Electricity/Water Access: $50 plus staff cost
- Park Maintenance staff: Hourly staff cost
- Vehicle Access: $50 per company vehicle, plus staff cost
- Parking Lot Rental: Fee based on type of use, number of spaces, and length of time.
Permit(s) will be issued following receipt of payment and will specify day, time, and location for use of the scheduled park facility. The remainder of the park will remain open for use by the public.
Cancellations and Refunds
Film/Photo Application Fee is non-refundable. Commercial Use Fees are refundable if the use is cancelled after the permit is issued and written notice is received two business days in advance of the date scheduled.