Getting Started

Successful filming is accomplished every day in Vancouver. In order to get from "Hey that would be perfect" to "That's a wrap", there are a few steps to take.

Step 1 - Application to Film

Apply On-Line

The application form is also available from the Vancouver Film Office or you may download the application form (PDF 69kb) as a pdf. One application form is required for each individual project. Submissions are $100 (non-refundable). Applications submitted without payment will be held until the application fee is received. Once the application is received by the Vancouver Film Office, a film coordinator will be assigned to the project. The film coordinator will assist in providing all of the city services required.

For filming five (non-consecutive) days or less:

• Applications must be submitted at least two weeks or 10 working days before the intended start of filming.

For filming five or more days:

• Companies filming for five or more consecutive days, or six or more days in a calendar year must be granted a License to Film by the City's Legal Department. Please allow three weeks or 15 working days before the intended start of filming for an application to be processed if a license is required. (see detailed explanation below)

Step 2 - Insurance

Applicants granted permission to film on City property must provide proof of liability insurance coverage. Each production company must have the insurance company fill out and return the Insurance PDF ( PDF). The completed insurance form must be submitted to the Vancouver Film Office at least 10 working days before the start of filming.

Step 3 - License Agreement

The license agreement is a contract between the City of Vancouver and a production company that plans to film for five or more consecutive days or for six or more days within the same calendar year. Permission to film will not be granted until this agreement is executed by the authorized signatures of your company. Upon receipt of your completed application form the Vancouver Film Office will forward it to the City's Law Department who will begin to prepare the agreement. They will contact you to obtain further information as needed. Preparation of the agreement will take approximately two weeks. The Law Department will forward the agreement to the production company for execution. If you have any questions about the license agreement, please call the City of Vancouver Law Department at 604-873-7512.

Step 4 - Permits

The Film Liaison assigned to the project will provide an estimate of costs for all City services. Production companies are required to provide a deposit in the amount of the estimate of costs. The deposit should be in the form of a certified cheque made payable to the City of Vancouver and drawn on a Canadian bank account, money order, interact payment and/or cash.

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