Key takeaways
- New Jersey has no statewide film permit. Each town issues its own.
- Many towns require a permit even on private property.
- Plan for an insurance certificate naming the owner, with at least $1,000,000 general liability, and one naming the town if required.
- Apply at least a week ahead, longer if you need police or street parking.
- The state film tax credit is 35 percent, or 30 percent near New York City.
Who issues film permits in New Jersey?
Film permits in New Jersey are issued town by town, usually by the municipal clerk, the police department or a special events office. There is no single statewide permit. Fees, filming hours, noise rules and lead times differ from one town to the next, so always start with the town where the property sits.
Do you need a permit on private property?
Often, yes. Many towns ask for a permit even when the whole shoot stays on private land, because trucks, parked cars and crew still affect the street. When you book a Set & Stay location, we tell you the town and its permit office and help you file.
Steps to get a New Jersey film permit
- Confirm the town where the location is and find its permit office.
- Get the property owner's written permission, usually your signed location contract.
- Order insurance certificates for the owner and, if required, the town.
- Submit the town's application with your dates, hours, crew size and parking plan.
- Pay the fee and arrange police or road use if the town requires it.
- Keep the approved permit on set for the whole shoot.
Insurance requirements
Owners and towns ask for a certificate of insurance before anyone arrives. Plan for general liability of at least $1,000,000 naming the property owner as additional insured, and a second certificate naming the town where its permit requires it.
New Jersey film tax credit
Qualified productions can earn a New Jersey tax credit of 35 percent of qualified spending, or 30 percent for spending tied to locations within 30 miles of Times Square, which covers most of Bergen County. Confirm eligibility with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority.
Find a location
Browse our film shoot locations in New Jersey, our mansion rentals, or send a request and get a written quote within 24 to 48 hours.
Rules change. Always confirm current requirements with the town before your shoot. Last reviewed October 2026.