Do you need a permit to film or photograph in Germany?

German Federal Film Fund (DFFF)

Germany's federal production incentive: a grant of 30% of approved German production costs since 2025, for German and international (co-)productions. New federal funding guidelines were in draft in May 2026.

Sources: FFA: German Federal Film Fund · Greenberg Traurig: Germany updates federal film funding

Berlin Brandenburg Film Commission Berlin and Brandenburg

First contact for filming in the Berlin region: filming permits, locations and contacts in the regional industry. Part of Medienboard Berlin-Brandenburg.

Sources: Berlin Brandenburg Film Commission: about us

In Berlin and Brandenburg, even small journalistic film and photo teams working on public streets need a filming permit. The permits are issued by the relevant district offices and must be requested there. A prior permit is also needed for indoor filming or filming on private property, and filming with drones needs a permit from the aviation authority.

Sources: visitBerlin (Berlin's official tourism and marketing agency): Filming in Berlin

Checked against the official source on October 6, 2026.