Constructed during the Great Depression, Deception Pass Bridge has become an iconic structure, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The bridge connects North Whidbey to Fidalgo Island and the mainland beyond. Two graceful curves in the bridge stand approximately 180 feet above the turbulent waters of this narrow passage of Puget Sound. The smaller span is named Canoe Pass Bridge, but they’re often referred to collectively as Deception Pass Bridge.
Fees
There is no fee for the application and permit to film here, but permission will have to be obtained from WSDOT. If other services are required, there may be costs involved.
Traffic and Obstructions
An estimated 15,000 cars cross Deception Pass Bridge every day, and countless pedestrians. Due to this high volume, WSDOT commonly does not allow filming between Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day Weekend, if the activities require traffic control. Outside of that window, each request is reviewed on a case by case basis. Some minor filming requests may be permitted on the sidewalk during that timeframe, if the crew is small, mobile, and does not block the sidewalk for more than just a minute. Basically in cases of film/photo shoots that behave like a tourist taking a picture.
Drones
The use of a drone for filming must follow FAA guidelines and obtain written permission for its use. WSDOT has a further requirement that the drone cannot be visible to traffic or fly over moving traffic. If this cannot be accomplished then traffic control will be required.
For More Information
For more information about filming at this popular site, please contact the film liaison. For a permit request, contact Bonnie Nau of WSDOT. The more advance notice you can give the better, but generally a permit can be processed within one to four weeks, depending on the time of year and complexity of the project.
Contact Information
Bonnie Nau, Construction Traffic Engineer
WSDOT, Northwest Region
206-440-4471
naub@wsdot.wa.gov
Important to Know
While the Washington Department of Transportation has jurisdiction over the bridge, it is still within Deception Pass State Park and you’ll need to also coordinate with the park ranger.