Charleston
Charleston runs a film and photography permit through its Office of Cultural Affairs, with a $1,000,000 policy naming the city.
Guidance, not legal advice
Permit
Conditional
Issuer: City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs (Film and Photography program)
Cost: Street-blocking and impact fees follow the city's special events fee schedule; a single flat film and photo permit fee is not published
Processing: Apply 15 business days ahead for high-impact, 10 for low-impact
A film and photography permit is required for activity on public property or impacting public space. A $1,000,000 liability policy covering bodily injury and property damage, naming the City of Charleston as additional insured, is required.
Drone / airspace
Commercial drone work requires FAA Part 107; expect added sensitivity over the historic peninsula
Local rules sit on top of FAA airspace rules. For Part 107 and drone law, see Drone Authority.
Street / public space
Yes: you can photograph what is visible from public space in the US
Private property sets its own rules regardless of city law.
Practical notes
- Filming or photography in a city park requires an additional park permit.
- Special effects must be reviewed by the special events committee and the fire marshal.
Sources
Keep shooting
Knowing the rules is half the job. The craft side: