Draft commercial-filming rules draw praise from producers, concerns from free-speech advocate

Dewey Beach council on June 26 continued discussion of draft regulations for commercial filming within town limits, emphasizing public-safety protections while inviting edits based on public and industry feedback.

Town staff presented a draft ordinance intended to address safety, traffic and liability risks when commercial productions use streets, boardwalks or right-of-way areas. The draft borrows elements from other municipalities and would require permits for productions that meaningfully affect public use of town infrastructure.

Independent producer Lisa Eversolage told the council she had reviewed the draft and found it generally reasonable: "It sounds very straightforward to me and like I wouldn't imagine any production to be surprised by this list and everything to me right now looks reasonable and you know we hope to work with you guys." She said most small independent shoots would plan logistics months ahead and avoid trailers where possible.

A different public commenter raised legal concerns. "What's currently written is purely illegal," the commenter said, arguing that a broad definition of "commercial filming" could apply to ordinary restaurant promotional posts or monetized social-media videos and would therefore risk First Amendment problems. He urged that the town obtain a specialized First Amendment review (beyond the town solicitor) and include clear objective standards, processing deadlines and appeal procedures.

Council members discussed possible carve-outs for local businesses producing promotional material that does not disrupt public safety, and considered adding de minimis language to exempt routine business activities. They also noted practical logistical questions to address in the ordinance, including street closures, placement of trailers and generators, and associated staffing or fee requirements if town personnel are deployed.

What happens next: Council asked staff to continue drafting the ordinance with input from producers and legal counsel and to return to future meetings; no vote was taken at this meeting.