Anyone filming for a commercial purpose in Seabrook needs a film permit under Ordinance 2014-12.
Lead time Approval at least 15 business days ahead for commercials and episodic TV
Fees The permit page lists a $50 application fee (the ordinance document lists $25)
| Do you need one? | Anyone filming for a commercial purpose in Seabrook needs a film permit under Ordinance 2014-12. Stunts, pyrotechnics, effects, drones, amplified sound and animals may need extra permits. |
| Who issues it | City of Seabrook Office of Public Affairs (applications filed with the City Secretary; City Manager approves). |
| Lead time | Approval at least 15 business days ahead for commercials and episodic TV; file 30 business days ahead for features. |
| Fees | The permit page lists a $50 application fee (the ordinance document lists $25); waivable for nonprofits. |
| Insurance | City of Seabrook as additional insured on $1 million general liability, $1 million auto and a $5 million umbrella; another $5 million umbrella (total $10 million) for stunts, pyrotechnics, effects, aerial photography, amplified sound or animals. Small shoots that use no city streets, property or staff, stay within permitted hours and don't affect neighborhoods are exempt from the insurance certificate. |
| Police, fire and traffic | The production pays for any police or public works staff assigned; off-duty officers are paid 1.5 times their hourly rate. The City Manager can require more police coverage. |
| Street and lane closures | The application must describe any area where public access will be restricted, with a map. |
| Telling neighbors | Affected neighbors get a written description of the schedule with a phone number to reach the production, and the producer must try to accommodate their concerns. |
| Hours and noise | 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays and holidays, noon to 7 p.m. Sundays. |
| Students and nonprofits | Fee waivable for nonprofits; no student rule stated. |
| Drones | Aerial photography may need an additional permit and triggers the higher umbrella insurance. |
| Also | Permits expire 45 days after the last scheduled shoot day. Sets may need building, electrical or plumbing permits; food vending needs Harris County health permits. |
From the official pages: City of Seabrook - Film permits ↗︎ · City of Seabrook - Filming ordinance and application (PDF) ↗︎. Rules and fees change; confirm with the office before you shoot. Not legal advice. Photo: Unknown, CC BY-SA 2.5, Wikimedia Commons.