Philadelphia
Philadelphia's film office coordinates but does not issue the permit; here is who does, the service fees, and the park and federal traps.
Guidance, not legal advice
Permit
Conditional
Issuer: City of Philadelphia (Streets Department for closures, Parks and Recreation for park media permits); the Greater Philadelphia Film Office coordinates but does not issue permits
Cost: No flat city permit fee published; the film office charges per-day service fees (roughly $200 for still photography up to $400 for features), and street closures need a Commercial Activity License plus paid police
Processing: Apply ahead; insurance must clear city risk management first
Filming in the public right of way needs insurance approval and a license agreement with the city. A certificate of insurance naming the City of Philadelphia as additional insured is required; the dollar minimum is set per shoot by risk management.
Drone / airspace
Commercial drone work requires FAA Part 107; the city adds approvals and airport-area airspace runs through the aviation department
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
- City parks permit separately: the Art Museum 'Rocky' steps, LOVE Park, and Boathouse Row are Parks and Recreation and need a media permit.
- Federal sites like Independence National Historical Park and the Liberty Bell are NPS jurisdiction.
Sources
Keep shooting
Knowing the rules is half the job. The craft side: