Manage location permission risk with a clear release form

It is commonly used by producers, agencies, brands, photographers, videographers and creators who need written permission to film or photograph on private property or controlled premises. That can include retail sites, offices, homes, hospitality venues, studios, warehouses or unusual commercial spaces. The service can also help where a landlord, venue operator or site manager has supplied their own release and you want legal input before signing. It is especially useful where the location itself is commercially sensitive or where the footage will be used in advertising, branded content or a wider campaign.

A strong location release usually covers permission to access and film, the dates and times of use, any limits on crew activity, the right to use the resulting footage, visible signs or branding, cancellation rights, liability wording and any conditions imposed by the owner. Depending on the site, it may also need clauses about confidentiality, restoration, security, insurance expectations or restrictions on equipment. These details matter because a location arrangement often involves practical and reputational concerns that go beyond simple permission to enter the premises.

Yes. In many shoots, the first draft comes from the owner, landlord, venue or their agent rather than the production team. We can review that document and flag issues such as narrow usage rights, broad indemnities, unclear cancellation terms, approval clauses that are too open-ended, or restrictions that do not match the planned shoot. We can then suggest changes to bring the wording closer to the commercial position. That can be valuable where the owner's form is heavily one-sided or written for a different kind of production.

Not always. A template may work for a simple, low-risk shoot, but many projects involve site-specific conditions that generic wording does not handle well. For example, the owner may want limits on equipment, crew size, branding visibility, access times or the channels where the footage can appear. Some locations also raise issues around third-party material visible on site or internal approval processes before filming can proceed. A more tailored draft or review can help you assess and reduce risk, but it does not promise every approval or outcome.

Many location release matters can move within several business days if the key details are available early, though timing depends on the complexity of the site and the state of the draft. After instruction, we look at the location, who controls it, the type of shoot, any special restrictions and whether you are working from an existing form. We then prepare the draft or review comments, and the included amendment rounds can be used to refine the wording. If the shoot date is close, it is worth flagging that at the outset.

Working with us is simple. Start by submitting an enquiry through our website using the form at the top of this page or on our Get Started page. A legal project manager will review your enquiry within 1 business day and reach out to understand your needs.

They'll send you a fixed fee quote outlining costs, scope, and timing. If you're happy, you can accept and sign our engagement letter online. Once that's done, we'll connect you with an expert lawyer who will complete your project via email, phone, or video chat, with the timing confirmed in your quote.

If you're not looking for help with a specific matter, explore our platform, which offers free templates, tools to get your business set up, and even a free tier to get started. Whether you need legal support or just want to browse resources, we've got you covered.

At Sprintlaw, our pricing is transparent and designed for startups and small businesses. Many one-off legal services, including document drafting and reviews, are provided for a fixed fee with an upfront quote before you proceed.

Prices typically range from £100 to £1,500 depending on the complexity and scope of the work. For ongoing support, Sprintlaw Memberships include options such as legal templates, consultations, a legal helpline and credits for services.

If your project is larger or more complex, we will provide a tailored quote after understanding what you need.

Sprintlaw UK operates fully virtually, with the team working online across the UK to provide support to startups and small businesses nationwide. Many of our team are based in London and often meet at co-working offices, but our operations remain fully digital, ensuring flexibility and efficiency for both our clients and team.