Navigating the Toronto Film Permit Process for Video Production Projects
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Toronto is not only a cultural hub but also a favourite backdrop for filmmakers worldwide. However, navigating the Toronto film permit process can sometimes feel like trying to direct a blockbuster with a shoestring budget and a cast of thousands. Fear not, intrepid filmmakers! We're here to guide you through the maze of regulations and film permits with a friendly, slightly humorous touch.
So, you've got your script, your crew, your locations, and your sights set on filming in Toronto. But before you roll out the cameras, there are a few rules of the road you need to know. From clean-up duties to parking pandemonium, here's a crash course in Toronto's film permit process for all you in the film industry or if you're a student filming.
Filling out Permits and FilmPal
For all you production companies, there's some paperwork to tackle. Permits for location filming are co-ordinated through and issued by the City of Toronto’s Film, Television & Digital Media Office which will referred throughout this blog post as the “film office”. And it doesn't matter if your the local news, or if your shooting reality television, music videos, a tv series, or short films, everyone goes through the same process.
The film office needs at least two business days to stamp your permit for city scenes, and three if you're taking over a park. They have a whole time schedule for when you can submit so check out the table below
You also gotta spill the beans on your production details using FilmPal. The city's keeping tabs on all the movie magic happening in Toronto, so they'll want to know what you're up to and how much dough you're dishing out. It's all part of the showbiz game, folks!
You can fill out and submit production info here.
Cleaning Up After Yourself
First things first, let's talk about keeping Toronto tidy. We know you're focused on capturing that perfect shot, but remember, cleanliness is next to cinematic greatness. According to the Toronto Film & Television Office (TFTO), production crews must tidy up the filming location at the end of each day. That means no leaving trash behind or washing debris into catch basins—Mother Nature doesn't appreciate being treated like a movie set. Another thing that you are responsible for is making sure that permanent or toxic materials are not to be used for set dressing city properties.
Parking Predicaments
Ah, parking—the bane of every urban filmmaker's existence. In Toronto, parking for production vehicles is a carefully choreographed dance. You can't just park willy-nilly; there's a method to the madness. Production vehicles must park one by one, engines off, and cast and crew vehicles better stick to the designated areas. This means they must adhere to all parking regulations specified on the permit and must not impede emergency response vehicles. Plus, if you're filming in a residential area, you better not be revving your engines before 7 a.m. or after 11 p.m. without the neighbour's' blessing. Cast and crew vehicles are not covered by the location filming permit and they should still observe designated parking areas noted by location managers. They also shall not block, or park in, driveways without the express permission of the driveway owner.
Cast and Crew Etiquette
While you're busy yelling "action," remember that you're a guest in Toronto's neighbourhoods. That means treating everyone with respect and courtesy, from the local coffee shop owner to the grumpy cat lady down the street. No trespassing, no lewd language, and definitely no offensive t-shirts allowed. And sorry, no boozy beverages on set—save the celebration for the wrap party!
Another thing to keep in mind is that each member of the crew must wear a production pass, also known as a badge, when the location so requires.
Permission to Film
Before you set up your tripod, you'll need to give the neighbourhood a heads-up. Proper notification is key, whether you're filming in a residential area or a bustling business district. Nobody likes surprises, especially when they involve camera crews and craft services trucks blocking their driveways. And if you haven't done any location scouting yet or need some inspiration on your next filming location, feel free to check out the previous article I wrote on The Top 16 Filming Locations in Toronto.
The Price of Permits
Ah, yes, the not-so-fun part: permit fees. Like any good production, filming in Toronto comes with a price tag, and film permits aren't cheap. From grid permits to road closure permits, the costs can add up faster than you think. Before you hit record, it's crucial to confirm that you've got the green light for that perfect shot. Trust us, the price of fines far outweighs the effort of proper preparation. Better safe than sorry! But hey, think of it as an investment for your cinematic masterpiece! Below are some expenses to be aware of for that next project:
Insurance: If you're filming in the bustling streets of Toronto, you'll need to show the film office your certificate of comprehensive general liability insurance. It should cover at least $2,000,000.00 per occurrence, or more if the city demands it based on your project. Don't forget to add the City of Toronto as an additional insured party. If you have privacy concerns and you're opting for an alias project title for your blockbuster, chat with your location manager. They'll help you navigate the insurance maze to ensure everyone's covered.
Expenses: When it comes to expenses, the production company foots the bill for everything related to using Toronto's roads, parks, properties, or gear. Before you dive into your shoot, you'll get an estimate of these costs. Be sure to touch base with the city division handling the charges to figure out the best way to settle up.
Security Deposit: Sometimes, the city might ask for a security deposit before handing out that coveted film permit. This deposit stays put until all invoices, charges, and claims are cleared. It's like putting down a deposit for your dream location, except it's for the whole production. Payment options? You can whip out your credit card or scribble a certified check payable to the "Treasurer, City of Toronto" and deliver it straight to the film office.
Student Filmmakers, Take Note
Attention, aspiring Spielbergs! If you're a student filmmaker looking to make movie magic in Toronto, there are some special rules just for you. If you're a student filming for a school project, here's the scoop: apply using your school's name as the production company moniker. Oh, and don't forget to toss in a copy of your educational institution's certificate of insurance—better safe than sorry, right? But what if you're a post-secondary hotshot trying to break out in film production? Fear not, we've got you covered. Just snag a separate certificate of insurance for your non-academic projects, making sure your production company name matches up with the one you named on the certificate of insurance. Whether you're shooting a student project or a passion project, you'll need to abide by the guidelines and play by the rules. No special effects, no prop weapons in public view, and definitely no filming past bedtime—sorry, no exceptions!
A Few Restrictions
But hold your horses, filmmakers, because not every nook and cranny in Toronto is fair game for your next blockbuster. Here's the scoop on where you can't set up your director's chair:
Location, Location, Location: Ever dreamt of capturing the perfect scene outside the United States Consulate? Well, sorry to burst your bubble, but that's a big no-no. Certain properties in Toronto are off-limits for filming, like the consulate at 360 University Avenue, and inside Toronto water facilities. And if you're eyeing those flashy highways like the Don Valley Parkway or Gardiner Expressway for your shoot, you'll need to jump through a few extra hoops, but don't worry that's what post production is for right? And like I mentioned earlier, if you need some new ideas for location shoots, check out our previous article on The Top 16 Filming Locations in Toronto.
Sensitive Spots: Some places in the 6ix have seen their fair share of drama, and we're not talking about the latest rom-com. Locations with a sensitive past due to tragic or violent incidents need extra TLC from the film office. If your script involves anything too intense or alarming for these areas, you might need to rethink your scene. Remember, the film office calls the shots here, so play nice!
No Drone Zone: Got your eye on some sky-high shots with a drone? Transport Canada's got the lowdown on drone regulations. Before you send your drone soaring over Toronto's skyline, swing by their website for the deets. And if you're planning on launching or landing your drone on city turf, whether it's a road or a park, give your Film Permit Coordinator a heads-up. They'll tell you what paperwork you need to keep things legal.
Parks: Got your eye on a picturesque city park for your next scene? Don't pack your picnic basket just yet! You'll need to give the city a heads-up at least three business days in advance for small gigs, or four for the big ones. They'll want to know all the juicy details: when you're filming, what you're bringing, and how many crew members will be tagging along. Oh, and don't even think about staking your claim in the city parks turf; no digging allowed without the green light from the park pros.
Trees and Fire Hydrants
Tree Trouble? Not on Our Watch: Urban Forestry By-Laws are like the guardians of Toronto's trees, both in the city and on private turf. Wanna trim or cut? Hold your clippers – you'll need the green light from the tree authorities first!
Private Tree Party: Did you know most of Toronto's trees call private property home? Yep, they're the VIPs of the urban forest, watched over by our trusty Urban Forestry crew. Trees over 30 cm diameter need a special invite before they're on the chopping block.
Boring Holes: If your film needs some drilling action, the details better be on point. Your film company's got to submit the plans, and it'll be a note on your filming permit – no surprise plot twists here!
Fire Hydrants and More: Ever seen a movie scene with a hydrant shower? Well, those scenes need a permit too! I only just found doing research for this article that we can actually use fire hydrants in our productions. The City of Toronto grants permits to use water from fire hydrants between April 1 (pending suitable weather) and November 15, but plan ahead – permits need at least 10 business days' notice! Apply for a fire hydrant permit here.
Paramedics and Paid Duty Officers
Ever needed a cop for your film scene? Well, you're in luck! Toronto Police Service officers, off-duty and all, are up for grabs. Just fill out the Paid Duty Officer Request form and fax it over to the Central Paid Duty Office. Easy, right? They'll sort out how many police officers you need to wrangle traffic or keep things safe. And hey, if your shoot involves some explosive special effects, they might even send in the big guns from the Explosive Disposal Unit.
Now onto the paramedics. Yep, even Toronto's got its own crew of lifesavers ready to roll for any event – big or small. Toronto Paramedic Services isn't just there for emergencies; they've got your back at film shoots, corporate video shindigs, and even those wild street parties. From a cozy gathering to a million-strong crowd, these folks are licensed to whisk patients off to the hospital pronto if needed – all thanks to the Ambulance Act of Ontario.
Street Signs, Street Lights, and Other Street Shenanigans:
Need to mess with the streets for your shoot? Better leave it to the pros! When street signs need a makeover or traffic signs gotta hit the road, only Toronto's Transportation Services can do the trick. And hey, they're not doing it for free – there's an hourly rate, folks!
And if you're messing with streetlights, you better have your numbers straight! Find those hydro pole numbers (they're like streetlight name tags) or jot down landmarks to help the streetlight squad find their targets. Oh, and don't forget to mention it on your permit application – it's all part of the streetlight shuffle!
Meter Madness and Bike Rack Blues: Ever seen a pay-and-display meter vanish into thin air? Well, it might just be for a scene! The Toronto Parking Authority's got around 17,300 street spaces to manage, including those pesky parking meters and bike racks. They'll need a heads-up if you're planning to spruce up or swap out any of those urban fixtures. Just ring up the On Street Co-ordinator and give a holler to the Toronto Film, Television, and Digital Media Office – they'll sort you out in no time!
So yeah, Toronto's got the backstage crew you never knew you needed!
xoTO Neighbourhood Givebacks – Spread the Film Love!
Toronto's not just a city of stars – it's a city of big hearts too! The xoTO Neighbourhood Givebacks program is all about giving back to the communities that allow all the filmmaking to happen in the first place. This program celebrates the generosity and community spirit of film, television, and digital media productions across the city and showcase what productions in Toronto are doing to thank the communities they film in.
Here's how they can pitch in for your production:
Finding the Perfect Giveback: No matter your budget, they'll help you uncover impactful ways to give back to the areas you film in.
Celebrating Together: They're all about spreading the word and celebrating your awesome givebacks with the public!
Toronto is a film-friendly city and being able to showcase the generosity and involvement in the community from film, digital media, and television productions goes a long way in nurturing the appreciation and support of residents.
Drop them a line at filmtoronto@toronto.ca, and let's sprinkle some film love across the city together!
Key Takeaways: Navigating Toronto's Film Permit Process
Permits and Paperwork: Whether you're filming a blockbuster or a student project, everyone navigates Toronto's film permit process the same way. Allow at least two business days for city scenes and three for parks. Don't forget to fill out your production details using FilmPal.
Cleanliness Counts: Keep Toronto tidy by cleaning up after each day's shoot. No leaving trash behind or using permanent materials on city properties for set dressing.
Parking Protocol: Parking for production vehicles is a choreographed dance. Adhere to parking regulations, don't block driveways, and no revving engines before 7 a.m. or after 11 p.m. in residential areas.
Respect the Neighbourhood: Treat everyone with respect and courtesy, and ensure each crew member wears a production pass when required.
Permission Matters: Notify the neighbourhood before setting up your shoot. Proper notification is key to a smooth filming process.
The Cost of Permits: Filming in Toronto comes with a price tag. Ensure you have comprehensive general liability insurance, cover out-of-pocket expenses, and be prepared for a security deposit if required.
Special Rules for Students: Student filmmakers must apply using their school's name for academic projects. Non-academic projects require separate insurance and adherence to guidelines.
Location Restrictions: Certain properties, like the United States Consulate and sensitive areas, have filming restrictions. Always check before setting up your shoot.
Other Considerations: Understand regulations regarding trees, boring holes, fire hydrants, and paramedic services for a seamless filming experience.
Spread the Film Love: Consider participating in the xoTO Neighbourhood Givebacks program to give back to the communities that support your filming endeavours.
CUT!
And that's a wrap, folks! Navigating the Toronto film permit process may seem daunting, but with proper planning, adherence to guidelines, and a touch of creativity, you'll be on your way to cinematic greatness in Toronto! Remember to review the detailed guidelines provided by the City of Toronto for a successful filming experience.
And if you’re a business owner or marketer looking to see how they can strategically implement videos to explode your business check out our detailed article giving a step-by-step guide.
To view the full and detailed list of guidelines, make sure to visit the official list from the city of Toronto: https://www.toronto.ca/business-economy/industry-sector-support/film/plan-your-shoot/