Any organisation or individual who wishes to film or hold a professional photo shoot in a reserve of the Agency for Nature and Forests (Agentschap voor Natuur en Bos), must obtain permission for it. These activities can in some circumstances have disastrous consequences for the soil, the plants or the peace of the animals. A correct assessment of the risks is therefore important. That is why Outdoor Locations examines every application for filming and photo shoots specifically with the responsible regional manager of ANB.
To obtain permission, you must complete an info sheet no later than 7 days in advance and return it to the Box Office. You will find this sheet [here]. We give the final approval and lay down specific conditions in consultation with the local regional department of ANB. Please note that in the case of a film production or photo shoot, an exploratory site visit can be conducted for the recordings together with a local representative.
So make sure that the request is submitted in good time and complete. This will enable you to avoid additional information being required afterwards.
For shooting footage in the nature reserves of the Agency for Nature and Forests, the following daily fees (including VAT) apply:
- Filming drama series or movie: 750 euros per day
- Publicity or advertising spots: 1500 euros per day
- Photo shoots: 400 euros per half-day
- Publicity or advertising photo shoots: 800 euros per half-day
- Build up/break off days: 50% of the daily rate
At each recording a deposit of 500 euros must be paid. If the deposit has not been paid before the day(s) of shooting, the recording cannot proceed. Subsequently, there follows an evaluation and feedback by the regional department of the Agency for Nature and Forests and this deposit will be refunded totally or partially to the applicant.
Film and photo shoots can only proceed if an agreement has been signed beforehand and the rental and deposit paid in full before the shoot. Any additional costs are dependent on the content of the file and the needs of the film makers.
- Investors in Belgian audiovisual productions can benefit from the Tax Shelter or a tax exemption of 150% of the amount invested.
- Independent audiovisual production companies which are officially established in Belgium can benefit from a contribution of up to €400,000 towards their expenses. Check the website of Screen Flanders to see whether your production is eligible for funding.