Permission for filming & photographs

Effective Date: The guidelines are effective from November 2013, superseding previous guidelines from August 2013.

Agreement: The person applying for permission must sign an agreement at the CCF to fulfill the rights related to filming/photography.

Required Documents: A list of documents must be submitted to the Director General’s office 15 working days before the required permission date. Documents include:

• • Letters of permission from relevant departments (Archeology, National Film Cooperation, Wildlife Conservation – if applicable).
  • Complete script or detailed synopsis.
  • True copy of the applicant’s National Identity Card.
  • Filming crew details with ID copies.
  • For foreign crews: media accreditation and copies of media passes issued by the Sri Lanka Government.
  • True copy of Incorporation Certificate (if applicable).
  • Form 20 from the Department of Registrar of Companies (if applicable).
  • Authorization Letter from the Director/Secretary mentioned in Form 20 (if applicable).
  • Letter reference from the Secretary of Ministry of Defense and Urban Development.

Additional Documents for Aerial Filming/Shooting:

• • • Letters of permission from the Ministry of Defense & Urban Development, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Economic Development, Sri Lanka Air Force, Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka, and Sri Lanka Tourist Board.

True Copy Certification: True copies must be certified by an Attorney-at-Law/Notary Public/Commissioner for Oaths/Justice of Peace.

Aerial Filming Restrictions: If filming involves aircraft/helicopters, it must be stipulated in the script/synopsis, subject to Ministry of Defense and Urban Development guidelines, and cannot be below 500m from ground level.

Purpose of Filming: The purpose (religious, educational, commercial) must be specified and is subject to review by the CCF.

Fees: For commercial purposes, a fee of Rs.25,000/= per site per week is payable. Additional fees may apply for extended shooting periods.

Adherence to Conditions: All conditions in the permission letter from the Department of Archeology must be strictly adhered to.

Restrictions:

• • No damage to archaeological monuments.
  • No harm to cultural values.
  • No filming in excavation/conservation areas.
  • Filming should not disturb visitors.

Religious Sites: Permission from the religious dignitary in charge is required for filming in religious places.

CCF Museums: No motion filming or photography is allowed at CCF museums.

Managed Sites: Specific sites include Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya.

CCF Representative: A CCF representative must accompany the filming crew, with subsistence and allowances paid by the filming company/individual.

Final Production Submission: A copy of the final production and unedited versions must be submitted for broadcasting approval within one month.

Filming Time: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Right to Withdraw: The Director General of the CCF reserves the right to withdraw permission without liability.

Validity: Permission is valid only for a specific time period.

Amendments: The Director General of the CCF can amend these guidelines for public interest.