Stunts

Whether your production includes controlled explosions, vehicle stunts, pyrotechnics, atmospheric smoke, simulated gunfire, aerial effects, or other specialized filming activities, the Palm Beach County Film & Television Commission is here to help make the permitting process as seamless as possible.

Our experienced staff works closely with municipalities, law enforcement, fire rescue, parks departments, and other local agencies to coordinate permits and help ensure productions meet all required safety standards. From commercials and television series to feature films, documentaries, and digital media projects, our team assists productions through every step of the permitting process.

The FTC categorizes stunts and special effects into the following classifications:

• Practical Effects: Effects created physically on set, including breakaway props, rain, wind, smoke, fog, dust, and other non-digital effects.
• Mechanical Effects: The use of mechanical rigs, moving equipment, cranes, wire systems, hydraulic devices, animatronics, or other specialized equipment to create controlled action sequences.
• Vehicular Stunt Effects: Precision driving, vehicle chases, simulated collisions, drifting, high-speed maneuvers, motorcycle stunts, and other vehicle-related action requiring specialized coordination and safety planning.

Productions involving stunts or special effects require careful planning to protect cast, crew, the public, and surrounding property. Depending on the scope of the production, additional permits, safety plans, traffic control measures, fire rescue personnel, law enforcement support, insurance documentation, or municipal approvals may be required.

Depending on the scope of your production, additional documentation may include:

• Comprehensive safety plans
• Licensed pyrotechnic operator information
• Proof of insurance
• Risk assessments
• Traffic management plans
• Fire rescue standby arrangements
• Marine safety plans
• FAA approvals for drone operations, when applicable

Submitting complete information early helps streamline the review and approval process.

Work With Our Production Team

If your project includes stunts, pyrotechnics, atmospheric effects, precision driving, simulated emergencies, or other specialized production elements, contact the Palm Beach County Film & Television Commission early in your planning process.

Our knowledgeable staff will guide you through permitting requirements, coordinate with local jurisdictions, and help ensure your production stays on schedule while meeting all applicable safety standards.