Transport for LondonFrequently asked questions
- Obtaining permission
- Applying for a permit
- Types of permit
- Permitted filming times
- Using flash and additional lighting
- Using a tripod
- Filming during engineering hours
- Costs
- Notice periods
- Shooting in the front of a train
- Number of people in the driver's cab
- Electrical power
- Filming restrictions
- Contact details
Do I need to obtain permission to film or photograph on London Underground?
Yes. Anybody wanting to film or take pictures must seek prior permission from the London Underground Film Office.
How do I apply for a permit to film on the London Underground?
For all individuals and film production companies applying for a permit, you should click here to start an application.
Which types of filming or photography permit can I applying for?
The are three types of permit; the student permit, two-hour permit or location permit. All requests must be in writing, preferably by one of our permit application forms.
What times of the day can I film on the London Underground?
Filming and photography will only be considered during the off-peak period (Monday to Friday 1000 - 1530 or 2000 - 2330 hours). Weekends are more flexible and filming can, usually, be done at any time of the day.
Can I use a flash or additional lighting?
Flash photography or any additional lighting is not permitted on any London Underground platform. However, they may be used elsewhere, and the Film Office and the Station Supervisor will be able to advise you on this.
Can I use a tripod?
Tripods are only authorised at the Station Supervisor's discretion and, for safety reasons, are not permitted on platforms.
Can I film at night during engineering hours?
Engineering hours (0100 - 0430), are an essential time for our contractors to carry out all necessary work that can't be done when the stations are open. Therefore, it is generally not advisable to film during this time. It may be possible if advance notice is given and there is no planned engineering work for that particular station.
How much does it cost to film or photograph on the London Underground?
This varies depending on whether you have a two-hour permit, a location permit or student permit.
Two Hour Permits
Crew size: Five to ten
lightweight equipment only
Permit cost: £250.00 plus VAT
Location Permits
Quotes on application
Rates start from £350.00 plus VAT per hour
Student Permits
Crew size: Five or less
lightweight, handheld equipment only
Permit cost: £25.00 inc VAT - valid one month from date of issue
Filming in drivers cab: £250.00 plus VAT
Click here to apply for a London Underground Filming Permit.
How much notice does London Underground require?
If you are applying for a student or individual permit then these can generally be turned around in a few days. London Underground requires two weeks' notice to set up an average sized filming or photography facility. In certain circumstances this can be turned around quicker, but it is dependent on the request itself.
Can I shoot in the front of a train?
Yes, but only if arrangements have been made in advance through the Film Office. This can be done if a member of operational staff can supervise theshoot and if the driver has no objection. Charges start from £200.00 + VAT per hour.
How many people can film or photograph in the driver's cab?
A maximum of two people with equipment can enter the driver's cab. This allows room for the driver and the member of supervisory staff.
Can I get electrical power from the London Underground?
London Underground operates on a different voltage system to the standard domestic set-up and therefore any connections to our power supply would need to be supervised by a qualified London Underground electrician. Advance notification would be required to provide one of our electricians and a charge would be made for their attendance on the day and, if their attendance is required, at pre-shoot meetings. Generally all crews are requested to use battery-operated equipment.
The use of any sized petrol or diesel generator is strictly prohibited on any London Underground station or train.
Does London Underground have any restrictions on what people can film or photograph?
Yes. In accordance with our byelaws, we do not permit the filming of the following activities:
- Vandalism or graffiti
- Ticket touting
- Assaults on passengers or staff
- Fare evasion
- Use of Firearms or other weapons
- Misuse of escalators or any other London Underground property
- Unlicensed busking
- Begging
- Smoking or the use of illegal drugs
Contact us
For further information please contact the London Underground Film Office:Film Office
London Underground Ltd
55 Broadway
London SW1H 0BD
Tel: 020 7918 0003/3610
Fax: 020 7918 4644
Email: filmoffice@tube.tfl.gov.uk
