PB Film

Production activity brings a variety of benefits to local communities, and if production is using your property, you will serve as an ambassor for both the production company and the community at large. By encouraging the production team to treat the community with care, you can help ensure that the filming experience is as smooth as possible and that productions will be welcomed in the future. When hosting film projects in a neighborhood or business district, residents and merchants should do their part to be good neighbors.

Neighbors' concerns should be addressed quickly, and every effort should be made to ensure that crew members do not unnecessarily disturb your neighbors. It is a good idea to introduce yourself to your neighbors to increase rapport and personally notify them that filming will be taking place at your property or place of business. Many jurisdictions require official notification prior to filming taking place as part of the permitting process.

Discuss the company's planned activities and parking plans prior to the shoot. Convey any concerns voiced by your neighbors to the production company. This will help avoid problems like blocked access that can cause ill-will between neighbors.

Hosting productions frequently can take a toll on neighbors who may not receive the direct financial benefits that you enjoy. You may want to consider ways you can give something back to your community for the inconvenience, such as support for local organizations or simply hosting a backyard barbeque.

When filming occurs at night, bright lights and noise may disturb your neighbors. Be sure to discuss such activities with those who may be impacted and make sure the production company addresses their concerns. People want to feel that they have been included in decisions about activities that may directly affect them.

If you have a unique property, or one that has large rooms you may want to submit your property for inclusion in our online locations database as well as the Florida Office of Film & Entertainment's website. 

Should your property be considered as a backdrop, be sure to ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) along with any fees you have negotiated. The COI should indemnify the property and the owners against any and all claims. We advise everyone to read the documents they are asked to sign very carefully and ask for clarification on any of the terms. It may be advisable to seek legal advice from a qualified attorney when applicable.

Filming on private property may not require a production company to apply for a film permit unless public property is being utilized either for filming or to support the production such as vehicles being parked in the roadway or for activities such as filming outside of municipal noise ordinance hours, special lighting, structure set ups, special effects or stunts. Touching base with the film commission prior to filming to confirm whether a permit is required is recommended. Obtaining a permit is the responsibility of the production company.