Burnaby Parks Film Scouting - Permit & Bylaw Checklist
This guide explains legal steps for scouting film locations in Burnaby, British Columbia. For most shoots and organized scouting activities you must obtain a film permit from the City of Burnaby[1], coordinate with parks staff for protected areas, and follow local bylaws and park rules before committing crew, equipment or closures.
Site-Planning Checklist
- Confirm desired park and exact locations within park boundaries.
- Schedule scouting outside high-use hours and check seasonal restrictions.
- Notify the City film office and parks operations of intended dates and crew size.
- Plan for parking and load-in zones; request traffic/parking controls if needed.
- Document sensitive environmental features and avoid damage to vegetation or historical features.
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement is administered by City of Burnaby Bylaw Enforcement and the municipal film/parks staff. Specific monetary fines for unauthorised filming in parks are not specified on the cited page[1]. Where fines or fees appear in official documents they will be listed on the City’s permit pages or the applicable bylaw.
- Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
- Escalation: first, repeat or continuing offences: not specified on the cited page.
- Non-monetary sanctions: orders to stop activities, removal of equipment, restoration orders, and court prosecution are enforceable under municipal authority.
- Enforcer and complaints: contact Bylaw Enforcement and the City film office via the City of Burnaby film permit page[1].
- Appeals/review: appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited page; check the permit decision notice or bylaw text for appeal periods.
Applications & Forms
The City publishes a Film Permit Application and supporting instructions on its permit page; fees, deposit amounts and submission steps are provided there when available. If specific forms or fee schedules are not posted, they are noted as not specified on the cited page.[1]
- Film Permit Application: name and current form are available on the City film permits page; fee: not specified on the cited page.
- Submission method: see City film permits page for online application, email or in-person drop-off details.
- Deadlines: submit well before planned scouting/shooting dates; specific lead times are listed on the permit page when published.
Operational Steps on Scout Day
- Carry written permit or confirmation and park map while scouting.
- Minimize equipment footprint; avoid digging, attaching to trees, or blocking trails.
- Record GPS coordinates and note nearby infrastructure and utilities.
- Report any accidental damage immediately to parks operations.
FAQ
- Do I always need a film permit to scout in Burnaby parks?
- Yes for organized shoots and professional location scouting you generally need a film permit; check the City film permits page for specific thresholds and exceptions.[1]
- How far in advance should I apply?
- Apply as early as possible; specific lead times are published on the permit page or in permit instructions and may vary by park.[1]
- Who enforces park rules during scouting?
- Bylaw Enforcement and parks operations staff enforce rules and may issue orders or penalties for non-compliance.
How-To
- Identify target park and exact scout locations and note sensitive areas.
- Contact the City film office to confirm permit requirements and provisional availability.[1]
- Submit the Film Permit Application and any supporting documents; await written approval before booking crew or equipment.
- On scout day, bring permit confirmation, follow park instructions, and document the site for final permit planning.
Key Takeaways
- Always check and obtain the City film permit before organised scouting.
- Coordinate with parks operations to protect sensitive areas and avoid enforcement actions.
- Keep contact details for Bylaw Enforcement and the film office handy during scouting.
