How to Host Motion Picture Filming

Essential Documents – Be sure to read the following FIRST!

To help you understand the process of hosting filming, the CFC publishes the guidebook, Your Property in a Starring Role outlining issues you will likely encounter from the first time you receive a call from a location scout, to when the last truck drives away from your property. This document includes sample forms and contracts.

For a list of helpful film industry terminology, click here.

Host Filming in Your Neighborhood

TO RESIDENTS AND MERCHANTS: If you plan to host filming at your property, you will become an ambassador from your community to the production company, and from the production company to your neighbors. By encouraging the production company to treat the community with care, you can help ensure that the filming experience is a positive one for all concerned, and that this company and others will be welcomed back. To this end, the California Film Commission (CFC) has developed the following guidelines to assist you in your role as host:

When hosting filming in a neighborhood or business district, residents and merchants choosing to allow production at their property should do their part to be “good neighbors.”
Address neighbors’ concerns quickly. Make every effort to ensure the production does 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 notification for after hours or weekend filming 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 to driveways that can cause ill will between neighbors.
When appropriate, and only with advance approval by the film company, invite neighbors to view the filming and meet the crew. This will go a long way to promote positive neighborhood relations.
Hosting filming 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 your neighbors who may be adversely 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 a location service company asks to represent your property, please be advised that State law requires the company have a real estate broker’s license.