Filming and photography in Uganda’s National Parks and National Reserves is strictly regulated under the Film and Stage Plays Act (Chapter 222). Anyone intending to film in these protected areas must first obtain a Filming Permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). The permit ensures environmental protection, cultural respect, and compliance with Ugandan laws.
Procedure
Step 1: Apply In Person
Applicants must obtain a filming and photography permit directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or through an approved agent.
- Pre-Application Consultation:
Visit the UWA Headquarters for preliminary discussions and guidance on permit requirements. This helps filmmakers understand park regulations and environmental restrictions. - Formal Application Submission:
After consultation, applicants must submit a formal application letter addressed to:
Communications Manager, Uganda Wildlife Authority
Plot 7, Kira Road, Kamwokya,
P.O. Box 3530, Kampala, Uganda. - Application Form and Documents:
Complete the official UWA Filming Application Form and attach all required documents, including a synopsis or script, list of crew members, and filming equipment details. - Submission Timeline:
Applications should be submitted at least three weeks before the intended filming date. UWA will acknowledge receipt within 24–48 hours. - Assessment and Approval:
The request will be evaluated based on environmental sensitivity, park schedules, and national interests. If approved, UWA issues a filming permit upon payment of the applicable fees. - Additional Conditions:
- Large film crews (over 10 people) may face environmental assessments.
- Filmmakers must report to the park warden before filming.
- All filming must comply with UWA park regulations.
Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Completed UWA Filming Application Form
- Formal application letter
- Filming license (if previously obtained)
- List of crew members (names, nationalities, passport numbers)
- Script, synopsis, or storyboard
- Filming equipment list and declared value
- Filming pass and rifle details (if applicable)
Office Locations & Contacts
Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) – Head Office
Plot 7, Kira Road, Kamwokya, Kampala
P.O. Box 3530, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 414 355 000
Fax: +256 414 346 291
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ugandawildlife.org
Fees
| Duration / Activity | Fees |
|---|---|
| Filming < 30 minutes | UGX 30,000 |
| Filming 30–60 minutes | UGX 40,000 |
| Filming 60–90 minutes | UGX 50,000 |
| Over 90 minutes | UGX 70,000 |
| Mountain Gorilla Filming | USD 4,000 |
| Chimpanzee Filming (Kibale Forest) | USD 1,050 |
| Each Crew Member Fee | USD 700 |
| Gorilla Trekking Permit | USD 280 |
| Liaison Officer Fee (per day) | UGX 15,000 |
Note: Filming fees exclude camping, park entrance, and accommodation fees. All payments must be made upfront upon approval.
Validity
The Filming Permit is valid for 3 to 6 months depending on the duration of production.
Processing Time
Approval typically takes 2 to 3 months, depending on the complexity of the project and the environmental assessment requirements.
Eligibility
- Foreign filmmakers and Ugandan residents are eligible.
- Foreign applicants must hold a tourist visa and secure accreditation from the Uganda Media Centre.
Instructions
- Aerial filming requires prior approval from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
- Submit two DVD copies of the final production to UWA for educational and non-profit use.
- All news-related films must be cleared through UWA’s Public Relations Manager.
Required Information
- Applicant or organization name
- Postal and physical address
- Contact number
- Production title and type (documentary, feature, commercial, etc.)
- Filming locations and dates
- Crew list and nationalities
- Equipment and vehicle details
- Ugandan production partners
- Estimated date for submission of final copies
Need for the Document
A Filming Permit is a legal requirement for all filming activities within Uganda’s National Parks. It ensures compliance with environmental and cultural regulations, helps protect wildlife, and facilitates coordination between filmmakers and park authorities.
Failure to obtain a permit before filming is an offence under Ugandan law, and violators risk fines, imprisonment, or equipment confiscation.
Additional Information
- Specialized activities such as gorilla or chimpanzee filming require booking permits in advance.
- Film crews working with Film Crew Fixers Uganda can expedite the contract process (2–4 working days).
- UWA’s flexible approach ensures filmmakers meet their objectives while preserving the parks.
