Do you need a permit to film or photograph in South Africa?

Wesgro Film and Media Cape Town and Western Cape

Cape Town and the Western Cape's official promotion agency, with a locations guide for productions.

Sources: Wesgro: film locations

Gauteng Film Commission Gauteng (Johannesburg)

The provincial agency that develops and promotes film and TV production in Gauteng, including Johannesburg.

Sources: AFCI: Gauteng Film Commission

In Cape Town, film permits are required for all film-related activity on City land, including commercials, features, documentaries, music videos, student projects and stills photography; weddings, private celebrations and news for immediate release do not need one. A permit is needed if a shoot interrupts traffic or pedestrians, runs cables across sidewalks or roads, uses generators, tripods or dollies on sidewalks or roads, affects public parking, beaches, open spaces or nature reserves, or makes noise or air pollution. Production companies and commercial photographers register once a year with the Cape Town Film Permits Office (public liability insurance required), then apply on the City's online film permit system.

Sources: City of Cape Town: Apply for a film permit

Checked against the official source on October 6, 2026.