Can You Film Movies Outside of Private Property Without Permission?”

Is Filming Outdoors Illegal?

Recently, there was news about a filmmaker being charged a fee for filming at Yokohama’s Osanbashi Pier. The area had clear rules: while casual, tripod-free photos were allowed, “professional filming” required permission and fees. In short, they shouldn’t have conducted professional-level filming without authorization.

For DIY filmmakers like us, filming is an integral part of our creative process. But what many don’t realize is how restrictive this activity can be.

Have you ever heard of “guerrilla filmmaking”? This refers to shooting scenes on location without obtaining the necessary permissions, like approval from property owners or roadway use permits from the police. While guerrilla filming is undoubtedly illegal, almost every outdoor film production—unless entirely confined to studios—relies on it to some extent, provided it doesn’t disturb others.

Imagine shooting a dramatic beach scene during the off-season on a deserted shoreline, leaving no trace of your presence. Though it might seem harmless, this too is an unauthorized and technically illegal act.

Some people vehemently criticize such practices, insisting, “Anyone unaware of these rules shouldn’t call themselves a filmmaker!” While I avoid conflicts, it’s crucial for filmmakers to be informed. At the end of the day, filming often inconveniences others, even when permits are in place.

The Fallacy of “Non-Commercial Filming is Fine”

A few decades ago, people generally turned a blind eye to hobbyist filmmakers creating non-commercial works, even if they used copyrighted music without proper permissions. Back then, Japan had limited awareness around intellectual property and rights-based business models.

Today, the line between commercial and non-commercial activities has blurred. For instance, a hobbyist might record a local festival and upload it to YouTube, only to have a TV network request to purchase the footage. Even smartphone-shot content can monetize through ad revenue.

This evolving landscape renders the “it’s just a hobby” argument obsolete.

Limited Filming Options and the Role of Special Effects

While advancements in equipment and editing software make filmmaking more accessible, finding places to film has become increasingly challenging. Unless you have access to private property or secure permissions, most locations are off-limits. This is where green-screen technology and compositing come to the rescue.

Imagine needing a train station scene for your movie. Filming actors at an actual ticket gate may be prohibited, but you could shoot a few seconds of background footage with your smartphone—ensuring no one is disturbed or filmed without consent—and then later composite actors into the scene using green-screen techniques. Alternatively, you could build a miniature set of the ticket gate, shooting it as your backdrop.

Is this approach “less authentic”? Perhaps to some. But it’s a perfectly viable way to maintain creative freedom while adhering to regulations. With skill and practice, such scenes can reach a level of realism that’s more than sufficient for audiences.

At my DIY Film Club, we focus on these techniques, teaching members not just how to shoot and edit, but also how to design scenes tailored to this method.