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This guidance distinguishes between filming permitted for democratic transparency at open meetings, restrictions on unsolicited filming by members of the public in council buildings and routes for commercial/location filming via Bucks Film Office.

Buckinghamshire Council fully supports transparency in local government and recognises the public’s right to report on council proceedings. We would like to clarify Buckinghamshire Council’s position regarding videoing, filming and photography within our premises.

Filming, photography, and video recording are prohibited in Council buildings, including receptions, offices, and staff-only zones unless prior permission has been obtained from the Council or the individuals concerned have given their consent. These restrictions are in place to protect the privacy and confidentiality of visitors service users and staff, safeguard personal data and sensitive information, maintain security and ensure the effective delivery of Council services. They support the Council’s obligations under the UK GDPR and Human Rights Act 1998.

While Council buildings are accessible to members of the public for the purpose of accessing Council services, they are not public places. Access to Council premises is subject to reasonable conditions imposed by the Council as occupier of the premises.

Visitors, service users and staff have a reasonable expectation of privacy and confidentiality when attending Council premises and individuals can request not to be filmed, recorded or photographed.

However, videoing, filming and photography are permitted in public galleries and during open council meetings, in accordance with the Openness of Local Government Bodies Regulations 2014, provided such activities do not disrupt proceedings. We ask that anyone exercising these rights does so respectfully and in line with Buckinghamshire Council protocols.

Commercial filming, broadcast filming, or filming for promotional purposes (including documentaries, advertising, and commercial photography) must be arranged through the Bucks Film Office.

Our aim is to balance transparency with the need to safeguard personal information and maintain a safe environment for staff and visitors. If you have any questions or wish to discuss filming arrangements, please contact:

Film Office: [email protected]
Policy Team: [email protected]
Democratic Services: [email protected]