Lock in a location in this order
- 01Find optionsWork from the location list in the script breakdown and find several options for each one. A local film commission or film office can often help with location information and support.
- 02Check themVisit with the director and cinematographer, or send photos. Look beyond the picture: power, parking, noise, restrooms, holding space and which way the sun falls.
- 03Agree termsSettle the shoot dates and hours (including setup and strike), the spaces you will use, the fee and who is liable for damage with the owner or manager.
- 04Put it in writingWrite what you agreed in a location agreement or contract and get it signed. Verbal permission disappears when the person in charge changes.
- 05Notify and prepareHand out the resident notice, plan lock-ups and parking, and put the location address and parking on the call sheet.
| Item | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Power | Whether there is enough power for lighting, or you need a generator |
| Noise | Whether traffic, construction, schools or planes will get into the sound |
| Parking and access | Whether gear trucks can get in and park |
| Holding space | Whether there is room for cast holding, hair and makeup, and meals |
| Time of day | Go back at the same hour to see the sun direction and how people move through |
Location agreements and public places
- Location name and address, and which spaces you will use (indoors, yard, rooftop and so on)
- Dates and hours of use — including setup and strike
- Fee and how it is paid, and what happens if you run over
- Use of power, water and restrooms, and where vehicles park
- Liability and insurance if anything is damaged
- The standard for restoration and how you will check it
- How much of the location appears on screen and on what terms
- Who to contact on the day, and how
Things that appear on screen, like building exteriors, signs and artwork, may need clearance separately from location permission. Places run by public bodies, like roads, parks, rivers, stations, schools and government buildings, each have their own process. Rules vary by country and city, so check directly with the relevant authority or your local film office whether you need a permit or notice, and how far ahead to apply.
Neighbor notices, lock-ups and parking
- Resident notice — include the project and production company, shoot dates and times, likely disruption (noise, lights, parking) and a contact, and hand it out a few days ahead.
- Lock-ups — within the area you were allowed, ask passers-by politely to wait a moment. Don’t block people; point them to a way around.
- Parking — assign spots for gear trucks and cast vehicles first, and park crew cars together in a separate crew parking area. Keep driveways and shop entrances clear.
Restoration and handling complaints
Take photos of the location as soon as you arrive. If you move furniture, photograph where it was. At wrap, compare against these photos to put everything back, take your trash, and walk through with the owner before you leave. It also matters for the next crew who wants to shoot in that neighborhood.
- Listen first — don’t interrupt or lead with your permit.
- Apologize and act — apologize for the trouble and do what you can right away (cut noise, move a vehicle).
- Say when you will finish — give a clear end time, and go back to tell them if it runs late.
- Don’t decide alone — don’t promise compensation or stopping the shoot on the spot; pass big requests to the UPM right away.
- Write it down — note what the problem was and what you did, so it doesn’t happen again tomorrow.
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