A Film Operational Permit (FOP) is required for drone takeoff or landing on public property. A SERSOP is also required if takeoff or landing occurs in the public right-of-way.
Drones are prohibited in:
- Denver Mountain Parks (including Red Rocks Park)
- City Park (2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205)
Drone requests require the following documents to be uploaded to step 6.9 of the film permit application:
A SERSOP is required if takeoff or landing occurs in the public right-of-way.
All FAA regulations must be followed. Visit the FAA Commercial Drone Operations website for more information.
Generators (5kW)
Generators over 5kW require both an Electrical Permit (power distribution) and a Fire Permit (fuel use).
Fire Permit (Denver Fire Department)
Read the guide before you apply for a fire permit online.
Resources
Contact
specialeventsDFD@denvergov.org | 720-527-9418
Generators under 5kW do not require permits. Review the Portable Generators guidance document for proper use.
Fire Permits
In addition to generator usage, additional production activities may also require a fire permit. Visit Denver Fire Special Events website at least 10 business days in advance of filming to view the DFD Special Events Guidelines, site plan requirements, fees, and application instructions.
Resources
Contact
specialeventsDFD@denvergov.org | 720-527-9418
Temporary Structures
Certain temporary structures require a permit from Community Planning and Development.
Review the Temporary Structures Permitting Policy found here to determine whether your film structures require a building permit. Only licensed contractors may apply for building permits in Denver.
Structures That Typically Require Permits
- Large or complex sets
- Large tents or membrane structures
- Safety nets or rigging platforms
- Towers used for camera crane operations or lighting
- Elevated platforms
Applications are submitted through the e-permits portal: www.denvergov.org/epermits
You are required to obtain permission from the artist or their estate to film or photograph public art, even in public spaces.
Failure to obtain permission may result in copyright infringement.
If public art will be included in your production, the request must be identified in your application, within Step 4 Location Details of the application.