The purpose of this document is to lay down a few simple ground rules to ease away potential issues that may arise in the film-making process.

Most filming and photography takes place with little or no inconvenience to local people but there are circumstances where, either through sheer scale or by their activities on location, film crews may disturb the routines of householders and businesses.

A few early considerations of the scale and timing of the shoot can help remove the potential for misunderstandings to arise.

We see the benefit of explaining our intentions to local people before filming. We understand that communication is the key to avoiding disaffection on and off set. Although there can be a conflict between good Public Relations and the possibility of crowds of people turning up, it is much safer to risk curiosity than hostility.

The over-riding guideline is ‘Plan and Communicate’. The key is to give sufficient notice to Local Authorities and other parties.

This Code of Conduct aims to ensure film production is a positive, enjoyable experience for both community and filmmakers alike.

All production companies must act in a responsible and professional manner. Producers are therefore asked to take their surroundings into consideration and not:
● obstruct others from carrying out their business, or
● cause a disturbance or safety hazard.

Any filming undertaken, and any liability there-from, is the sole responsibility of Bristol Films CIC and its associates. At all times we will endeavour to protect the interests of both the production company and the location owner.

Location

Filming activity must not take place until permissions have been granted by all the relevant parties. Bristol Films must ensure that all those affected by filming have been consulted and informed of arrangements. Where possible, notice of at least one month must be given. Details should include:
●  Name of the production, type of production, contact person and contact number.
● Scale of production in terms of numbers of personnel and vehicles;
● Removal, alteration and disguising of street furniture and carriage way markings.
● Use of cranes, aircraft, cherry pickers, track, low-loaders, “A” frames and other potentially hazardous equipment.
● Parking of production vehicles on yellow lines, in metered bays or residents bays;.
● Use of special effects, rain or snow machines, wet downs and stunt work on public foot ways or carriage ways;
● Productions which depict subjects of a controversial nature.
● Filming involving children or animals.

Bristol Films will also ensure that location owners are:
● kept fully informed of the intentions of the production company at all stages whether the location is eventually used for filming or not.
● given a reasonable site rental in accordance with the budget of the film, unless alternative arrangements are made;
● issued with an approved location contract which clearly states the terms agreed between themselves and Bristol Films.

Emergency Services
It is recommended that the Emergency Services are directly notified of filming activity including location, dates and relevant information as early as possible.

Insurance
Bristol Films will ensure they have appropriate liability insurance to cover public liability and employer’s liability (even if volunteers are directed). Bristol Films carries Public and Employer’s Liability Insurance to the value of no less than £5 million. This covers general photography & filming where the filming and related activities are considered as at least minimal risk and/ or no risk.