FILMMAKING AND PHOTOGRAPHY PERMITS IN SRI LANKA : WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse urban settings make it a dream destination for filmmakers and photographers. From the misty mountains of Ella to the colonial charm of Galle and the bustling streets of Colombo, the country offers a variety of stunning backdrops.

However, before setting up your camera, it’s crucial to understand the legal and bureaucratic requirements involved in filming or photographing in Sri Lanka. Different authorities govern various locations, and obtaining the necessary permits is essential to avoid disruptions, fines, or legal issues.

Check out our work with some of the biggest Sri Lankan brands at clear.lk/work

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key institutions responsible for issuing permits, the types of locations that require approvals, and how you can navigate the process smoothly.

Where to Get Filming and Photography Permits in Sri Lanka

1. Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAA)

If you plan to use drones for aerial shots, you must obtain permission from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Unauthorized drone operations can result in fines or confiscation of equipment. The approval process may also require clearance from the Ministry of Defence (MOD), depending on the location.

📍 Contact: www.caa.lk

Learn about the in-depth process of acquiring drone permits in Sri Lanka in our recent blog post here : SRI LANKA DRONE VIDEO PRODUCTION APPROVAL PROCESS

2. Ministry of Defence (MOD)

For filming in high-security areas such as near military bases, government buildings, or strategic infrastructure, you must seek clearance from the Ministry of Defence.

This is especially important for foreign film crews, who may need additional approvals from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) as well.

📍 Location: Defence Headquarters Complex, Akuregoda, Battaramulla📍 Contact: www.defence.lk

3. Department of Archaeology

If your shoot involves historical or archaeological sites such as Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, or Polonnaruwa, permission from the Department of Archaeology is mandatory.

Filming inside ancient temples, stupas, or heritage sites often comes with specific conditions to ensure the preservation of these landmarks.

📍 Location: 212, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 07

📍 Contact: www.archaeology.gov.lk

4. Urban Development Authority (UDA)

For filming in public parks, streets, or urban areas under government jurisdiction, you may need to apply for a permit from the Urban Development Authority (UDA). This is particularly relevant for large-scale productions that require road closures or modifications to public spaces.

📍 Location: Sethsiripaya, Battaramulla

📍 Contact: www.uda.gov.lk

5. Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) & Local Municipal Councils / Pradeshiya Sabhas

If you are shooting in Colombo or any other city, you need permission from the respective Municipal Council or Pradeshiya Sabha. The Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) oversees public locations such as Galle Face Green, Viharamahadevi Park, and certain street areas.

📍 Location: Town Hall, Colombo 07

📍 Contact: www.cmc.lk

For other cities, contact the relevant Municipal Council or Pradeshiya Sabha, which governs smaller towns and rural areas.

6. Local Police Station

For shoots that may affect traffic, require crowd control, or involve special effects (such as artificial gunfire or explosions), clearance from the nearest police station is necessary. The police may also provide officers for security if needed.

📍 Requirement: Submit an application explaining the shoot, location, time, and any road usage concerns.

7. Ministry of Education – Isurupaya, Battaramulla

Filming in schools, universities, or other educational institutions requires approval from the Ministry of Education. Whether it's a documentary, commercial, or fiction film, permissions are strictly regulated to avoid disruptions in the academic environment.

📍 Location: Isurupaya, Battaramulla

📍 Contact: www.moe.gov.lk

8. Sri Lanka Railways Department

If you plan to shoot on railway tracks, trains, or stations, approval from the Sri Lanka Railways Department is essential. The railway authority is strict about safety regulations, and unauthorized filming is prohibited.

📍 Location: Railway Headquarters, Maradana, Colombo 10📍 Contact: www.railway.gov.lk

9. Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA)

For foreign production crews, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) serves as the primary body for approving film projects.

They assist with location scouting, permits, and other logistical needs. Local production companies working with international teams also need SLTDA approval.

📍 Location: 80, Galle Road, Colombo 03

📍 Contact: www.sltda.gov.lk

10. Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC)

If you plan to film in national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, or other protected areas, permission from the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) is required.

Locations such as Yala, Wilpattu, and Sinharaja Rainforest have strict regulations to protect biodiversity, and filming fees may apply.

📍 Location: 811A, Jayanthipura, Battaramulla

📍 Contact: www.dwc.gov.lk

11. Forest Department

If you're filming in reserved forests, nature reserves, or jungle areas, you must obtain a permit from the Forest Department. Certain forested areas fall under the Department of Wildlife Conservation, while others are managed by the Forest Department.

📍 Location: Sampathpaya, Battaramulla

📍 Contact: www.forestdept.gov.lk

12. National Film Corporation of Sri Lanka (NFC)

For feature films, commercials, or large-scale productions, obtaining a permit from the National Film Corporation (NFC) is often required. They facilitate coordination between different government bodies and provide industry-specific guidance.

📍 Location: Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 07

📍 Contact: www.nfc.gov.lk

13. Road Development Authority (RDA)

For filming on highways, main roads, and bridges, permission from the Road Development Authority (RDA) is required. If road closures or traffic control are necessary, additional approvals from local police and municipal councils may be needed.

📍 Location: Sethsiripaya, Battaramulla

📍 Contact: www.rda.gov.lk

Additional Considerations

Private Property: If you’re shooting on private land, always get written consent from the owner.
Temple & Religious Sites: Many temples require separate approvals from religious authorities and may have strict rules on photography and attire.
Insurance & Safety: Some locations require liability insurance, especially if you're using heavy equipment or large crews.

Navigating the permit process for filmmaking and photography in Sri Lanka may seem complex, but with the right approvals, your production can run smoothly without interruptions. Understanding which authorities to approach based on your location and nature of the shoot will save you time, money, and potential legal troubles.

If you're unsure about the process, consider working with a local production company that can help handle the paperwork and secure necessary permissions efficiently.

For commercial projects and permit-related requirements, reach out to us for assistance with your line production. Contact us here.

Whether you’re capturing the ancient beauty of Polonnaruwa, the energetic streets of Colombo, or the lush greenery of Ella, securing the right permits ensures a hassle-free creative journey.

Feel free to reach out to us, to see how we can help you with your photography in Sri Lanka and videography-related content requirements. Clear Sri Lanka is a well-known Video Production house provides Commercial Production services.

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