Filming on highways

Filming inside vehicles does not require a permit, provided that it does not impede traffic.

• When filming in moving traffic on motorways, a minimum speed of 60 km/h must be observed.
• The provisions of the Road Traffic Act (StVO) must be followed.

Filming that involves using the motorway beyond the usual limits or in a way that deviates from the provisions of the Road Traffic Act (StVO)requires a permit. In these cases, special use under road traffic law is required. 

Danger:

• In the event of special danger situations (e.g. accidents or state visits), an authorization already granted may be revoked at short notice in accordance with Section 44 (2) of the Road Traffic Act .
• Even for approved filming, it must be ensured that all vehicles are properly registered for traffic. Trailers are generally only permitted up to a load of 800 kg.
• The filming permit as well as all necessary permits and, if applicable, special permits according to §46 STVO must be carried at all times during filming. Official license plates must be present on the vehicles.

The responsible approval authority for filming on Berlin motorways is the Autobahn GmbH Northeast branch.

Notes:

• Due to the high volume of traffic on Berlin's city motorways, filming that disrupts traffic is generally only possible at night and on Sundays. On some sections of the route, filming is permitted on weekdays between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
• Overtaking scenes, night filming with external headlights and driving with blue lights require an additional special permit, which is issued by the Central Road Traffic Authority. The details must be agreed upon with the motorway police.
• The establishment of base camps and filming at rest areas must be coordinated with the Central Road Traffic Authority. Access and exit roads to the motorway must not be obstructed under any circumstances.

The highway police requires a shooting schedule with the following information:

• Desired filming location
• Date
• Time
• Duration
• Production number and working title (if applicable)
• Synopsis and script excerpt
• Responsible contact person in production

Application deadline:

The processing time is usually two weeks but it can take longer for shoots that require a high degree of coordination.

The responsible approval authority for filming on highways in the state of Brandenburg is also the Autobahn GmbH North East branch.

Camera vehicles with crane superstructures, "Russian Arms" or comparable systems such as shotmakers with extra width, as well as the transport of people on loading areas, require approval from Autobahn GmbH and are are subject to an obligation to notify the responsable authority. The use of these approved special vehicles, including their superstructures and booms, may only take place within the respective lane.

Service provider: MOVIE CAM CAR GmbH (MCC)
Link to the information page: Filming with a trailer vehicle