Local Permits and Guidelines

Permits
Permits for filming throughout the region are coordinated through the Buffalo Niagara Film Commission.

This office will ensure that all municipalities and agencies are notified and that the required logistical information is processed.

All permits MUST be approved before filming can begin.

Permit application can be found on this website and should be submitted even if all information is not available. Please make sure that we have cell phone and e-mail data so that we can contact you quickly. 

Insurance
All productions must submit certificates of public liability insurance in the minimum amount of $1 million prior to filmmaking within the region.

Please contact us so that we can identify who must be named as additionally insured. 

Copies of your insurance certificate must be filed with the Buffalo Niagara Film Commission. 

Special Effects
Permission for any special effects must be coordinated through the Buffalo Niagara Film Commission. These include scenes involving simulated gunfire, open flame, smoke, explosives, pyrotechnic and any other extraordinary effects.

Notification of Impacted Residents & Businesses
The Production Company is responsible for notifying all businesses and residents affected by the filming activity.  We will be happy to assist in coordinating neighborhood notifications.

Parking
All on-street parking of production vehicles MUST be approved prior to pre-production activities.  We work closely with parking enforcement officials. Count on us to assist you in posting streets and helping to organize your parking needs.

Street Closures and Intermittent Traffic Control
All road closures, detours and traffic issues should be coordinated through the Buffalo Niagara Film Commission. We will work with local authorities to insure a safe and effective experience for you and your crew while causing the least disruption for commuters and pedestrians.

To submit application please fax to: 716-675-3307

Or mail to:

Buffalo Niagara Film Commission
617 Main Street, Suite 200
Buffalo, NY 14203