1) New York City’s Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting began accepting permit applications with restrictions on cast and crew size and other regulations on June 30th. The regulations governing the permitting of film and television production continue to evolve in response to guidelines issued by New York State.
2) Our policies are informed by New York City and New York State health guidance. We offer comprehensive guidance through the permitting page on our Website: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/mome/permits/permits.page. In addition, the team at our Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting is available to talk through any issues that productions might have. New safety guidelines include maintaining distancing, limiting number of cast and crew, and creating a safety plan.
3) Throughout the pandemic, the Film Office has continued to operate remotely, responding to calls from production, providing guidance on permitting and monitoring compliance with permit regulations.
4) We have so far had a measured rollout of production with small shoots. We anticipate this to continue through most of August, with larger productions either focused on prep or filming on sound stages. We have been in ongoing conversations with various productions who are, by and large, planning on a more robust startup beginning in September.
5) We are following regulations specified by our state government. New York State has been opening in different regions at different paces, in phases, triggered by localities meeting certain health criteria. Since different localities have different challenges, including population density, they are meeting these criteria at different times. As a result, there is variation within the state.
6) We continue to be inspired by the commitment and creativity of the production community as it works to come back safely and strongly in the recovery. We look forward to supporting them in their efforts to get back on set. We welcome them and we know they will be conscientious guests in New York City’s communities and in their support of local businesses.
