Columbus
Columbus requires a Recreation and Parks film permit for park shoots and street closures; Film Columbus coordinates the rest.
Guidance, not legal advice
Permit
Conditional
Issuer: Columbus Recreation and Parks (film permit); Film Columbus (Greater Columbus Film Commission) as coordinator
Cost: Around $100 for commercial projects and $50 non-commercial, plus a $40 processing fee, per the Recreation and Parks film planning guide
Processing: Street closure applications are due 30 days before filming; apply early for parks
A film permit from Columbus Recreation and Parks is required when filming in a city park or closing a street for filming. Film Columbus, the regional film commission, walks productions through permits and city contacts. Proof of insurance is part of the parks permit. Casual personal photography needs nothing. Verify current fees and rules with Film Columbus and Recreation and Parks.
Drone / airspace
Commercial drone work requires FAA Part 107; local property rules add restrictions
Local takeoff, landing, and park restrictions 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
- The Scioto Mile and downtown riverfront parks fall under the Recreation and Parks film permit.
- The Ohio Statehouse and Capitol Square are state property with their own permission process, separate from the city.
- Franklin Park Conservatory and other ticketed venues set their own commercial photography rules.
Sources
Keep shooting
Knowing the rules is half the job. The craft side: