Filming permits in Cemeteries

The nine cemeteries in the city of Barcelona, as well as the crematorium centers located in Montjuïc and Collserola, are managed by Cemeteries of Barcelona, S.A. (CBSA). This entity is responsible for authorizing permits for filming and photo shooting.

To request authorization for filming or photography for advertising purposes, you must contact CBSA directly at comunicacio@cbsa.cat.

For non-advertising projects, requests must be submitted through the Barcelona Film Commission (BFC).

The procedures differ for filming and photography sessions, and the details are provided for each case below:

For Filming Projects:

When planning your filming in a cemetery and/or crematorium, keep the following conditions in mind:

  • Each cemetery has its own unique characteristics, so each request is evaluated individually based on the filming needs and the specific cemetery.
  • A detailed description of the scene to be filmed is required, as filming or photography that disrespects the nature of the space will not be authorized.
  • Filming is only allowed during the cemetery’s opening hours (from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, except for the St. Gervasi Cemetery, which closes at 5:30 PM).
  • Filming in crematoriums can only take place between 6:00 PM and 6:00 AM.
  • Funerals always take priority over filming, regardless of how far in advance the permit was processed.
  • Filming of music videos is not allowed.
  • Filming of CBSA employees without their authorization is prohibited, as is filming funerals without the families' permission.
  • Any interaction with tombs, graves, headstones, etc., requires explicit authorization from CBSA, as filming, altering, or decorating graves or headstones without the owner's consent is not allowed.

DEADLINE:

(approximately, depending on the complexity of the filming):

  • 1 week for simple filming of an informational or educational nature.
  • 2 weeks for academic or amateur projects of medium complexity.
  • 4 weeks for more complex productions (advertisement spots, series, and feature films).

COST:

The filming fee for cemeteries is 715.30 €. In addition, all productions must hire security personnel (one security guard per filming set). The applicant will contract the security service directly with the security company designated by CBSA.

Depending on the complexity of the filming, a security deposit may be required (the amount will be determined based on the specific needs). This deposit will be refunded once the filming is completed if everything is in good condition.

EXEMPTIONS:

The filming fee will not apply in the following cases, although authorization is still required:

  • Academic projects: A specific letter for the project from the Study Center must be provided, signed by the person in charge. Academic projects will also receive 4 hours of security accompaniment at no cost. After these 4 hours, the cost will be assumed by the applicant.
  • Institutional productions: A letter from the corresponding institution certifying that the applicant is performing a commission for them.
  • Cultural, amateur, and crowdfunding projects (e.g., Verkami, Kickstarter, etc.), properly accredited.

PROCEDURES AND REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION:

For Low Complexity Productions:

Step 1: Prepare all necessary documentation to request the permit:

  • Photos of the exact location where filming will take place.
  • Google Maps link to the filming location.
  • A copy of the Liability Insurance policy covering claims for damages to CBSA facilities and personnel, or third parties, for up to 600,000 €, and proof of payment for the last insurance premium.
  • A letter from the school/institution (if it is an academic or institutional project).

Step 2: Fill out the online forms for Production Registration (if not already completed) and Locations Request.

Step 3: Send an email to filmcommission@bcn.cat with all the documentation mentioned above. If all the information is correct, the BFC will send it to CBSA, and the process will begin. CBSA will then contact the applicant to provide a document that must be signed and returned as authorization.
If necessary, proof of payment for security personnel will also need to be provided.

For Higher Complexity Productions:

Step 1: Send BFC a document with the following details:

  • Dates, times, number of technicians, number of actors, number of vehicles, exact filming location (photos and Google Maps link), and a description of the scene to be filmed.

Step 2: If filming is feasible, the following will be requested:

  • Documentation regarding Prevencontrol (Health and Safety Regulations).
  • A copy of the Liability Insurance policy for up to 600,000 € and proof of the last premium payment.
  • The fiscal details of the company and the name and ID number of the person signing the contract.
  • Proof of payment for the filming fee, the agreed-upon security deposit, and any other services or expenses related to the filming.

For photo shootings:

To take photographs inside the cemeteries, a photography permit must be requested.

Step 1: Fill out the online forms for Production Registration (if not already completed) and Location Request.

If approved, CBSA will provide the applicant with a photography permit document to be signed and returned, confirming that the applicant has been informed of the regulations.

Regulations for Photography:

  • Photographs can only be taken during cemetery opening hours (from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day, except for St. Gervasi Cemetery, which closes at 5:30 PM).
  • Photographs cannot feature people, inscriptions on graves, or any ongoing funeral or ceremonial activities unless specific permission has been obtained.
  • The participation of actors, models, extras, or similar is not authorized.
  • If the photographs taken at CBSA premises are to be displayed outside of a private context, prior authorization must be obtained from Cemeteries of Barcelona.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: