Shooting in NL
Film permits in the Netherlands
There is no single national film permit in the Netherlands. Every municipality decides about filming in its own public space, and some locations, such as nature reserves, waterways, ports and railway stations, have their own owners with their own rules.
That sounds complicated. In practice it mostly means you need someone who knows who to call.
Tell us where you want to shoot→What usually needs a permit
How long it takes
working days at least, for a standard permit in a large city
Plan for at least 10 working days for a standard permit in a large city, and more for road closures, drones or busy locations. Smaller towns are often quicker. If your dates are tight, tell us early; we know where things can move faster and where they cannot.
Drones, nature and neighbours
Drones
Drone shoots follow European drone rules and need a licensed pilot. Large parts of the Randstad are controlled airspace around Schiphol and Rotterdam The Hague airport, which means extra clearance and more preparation time. We work with licensed drone operators who handle the paperwork.
Nature and private locations
National parks, beaches and dunes are run by organisations such as Staatsbosbeheer, Natuurmonumenten and the regional water authorities. Private locations need a contract with the owner. We do both and keep the owner happy, which makes the next shoot easier too.
Neighbours
For bigger shoots, residents are informed in advance with a letter. It is often a permit condition and it always helps on the day.
Questions
It depends on the city and the shoot. A standard permit in a large city takes at least 10 working days; road closures, drones and busy locations take longer. We Are Will applies for permits on behalf of its clients and plans around the lead times.
Each municipality decides about filming in its own public space. Nature reserves, waterways, ports and railway stations have their own owners and rules.