The Town of Tyrone welcomes film, television, commercial, and photography projects and works to balance creative activity with public safety, neighborhood impacts, and the efficient use of public spaces. A film permit is required for certain filming activities within the Town limits.
This page outlines when a permit is required, how to apply, and what to expect during the review process.
When Is a Film Permit Required?
A film permit is required for filming or photography activities that involve any of the following:
- Use of public property, including streets, sidewalks, parks, buildings, or rights-of-way;
- Traffic control, lane closures, or parking restrictions;
- Use of Town personnel, including police, fire, or public works staff;
- Equipment placed in or affecting public spaces (e.g., cameras, lighting, cranes, generators);
- Noise, lighting, or activity that may impact nearby properties or businesses; and
- Filming on private property that creates impacts on public space, such as:
- Parking vehicles in the public right-of-way
- Blocking sidewalks or streets
- Generating excessive noise or lighting visible from public areas
- Requiring public safety or traffic assistance
Note: Filming on private property that does not impact public space and does not require Town services generally does not require a permit.
Activities That Do NOT Require a Permit
A permit is not required for:
- Personal or family photography;
- News gathering by accredited media;
- Small-scale filming using handheld equipment that:
- Does not block sidewalks or streets
- Does not require Town staff or traffic control
- Does not create noise, lighting, or safety concerns
If you are unsure whether your activity requires a permit, please contact the Town before filming.
How to Apply for a Film Permit
Step 1: Submit an Application
Film permit applications must be submitted to the Town in advance of filming. Applications should include:
- Project description and filming dates/times
- Specific locations
- Equipment list
- Anticipated impacts (traffic, parking, noise, lighting)
- Proof of insurance naming the Town as an additional insured
Step 2: Review by Town Staff
Town staff will review the application to ensure:
- Public safety considerations are addressed
- Impacts to residents, businesses, and traffic are minimized
- Appropriate staffing and resources are identified
Additional conditions may be required based on the scope of the project.
Step 3: Permit Issuance
Once approved, the permit will outline:
- Approved locations and filming times
- Required Town services (if any)
- Traffic or parking conditions
- Any special conditions applicable to the project
Filming may not begin until the permit is issued.
Fees and Costs
Film permit fees are as follows:
- Permit application fee: $50.00
- Per-Day Passive Film Fee (Town-Owned Property): $500.00
- Per-Day Active Film Fee (Town-Owned Property): $1,000.00
- Refundable Deposit (When filming on Town-Owned Property): $1,000.00
- Penalties (Ea.): $1,000.00
Law Enforcement:
- Patrol Car (Hourly, each): $15.00
- Officer: Hourly Rate Designated by Chief of Police
Applicants will be notified of estimated costs during the review process.
Insurance and Indemnification
Most permitted filming activities require a certificate of insurance naming the Town of Tyrone as an additional insured in a minimum amount of $1,000,000.00. Coverage amounts will depend on the scope and nature of the filming activity.
Expectations During Filming
Permitted filming activities must:
- Comply with all permit conditions
- Follow instructions from Town staff and public safety personnel
- Maintain access for emergency vehicles at all times
- Avoid unnecessary disruption to residents and businesses
- Restore all public areas to their original condition
Failure to comply with permit conditions may result in permit revocation.
Contact Information
For questions about film permits or to determine whether a permit is required, please contact:
Dee Baker, Town Clerk
770-487-4038 ext. 107
dee.baker[at]tyronega.gov
Early coordination is encouraged to ensure a smooth and successful filming experience - applications MUST be received 10 days prior to planned filming.