We encourage you to submit your film permit application at least 3-5 business days prior to the proposed filming date(s). Road closures require a minimum of 10 business days' notice.
There are three steps to obtaining a film permit, outlined below. Please get in touch with us as early in the planning process and vet locations through the film office before committing. Permit applications are due at least 3 business days prior to the proposed filming date(s); applications for a road closure are due at least 10 business days in advance.
Step 1 - Register the Production
Submit a Production Information Sheet, signed Code of Conduct for Cast and Crew and certificate of insurance to the Film Office by emailing filming@chatham-kent.ca.
Insurance Requirements
- Certificate Holder named as Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Attn: Film Office, 315 King Street West, P.O. Box #640, Chatham, ON N7M 5K8.
- The Municipality of Chatham-Kent is listed as additional insured.
- Third-party liability insurance – minimum $2,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate.
- The name of the production company must match the name listed on the Production Information Sheet.
Step 2 - Apply for a Film Permit
Submit a Film Permit Application and Notification Letter Template to the Film Office at filming@chatham-kent.ca. Please review the entire permit application process including the film shoot parking information before submitting. Staff will review the application and contact you if there are any questions or changes required.
Health & Safety
Productions must plan for health and safety considerations at each location, and follow the Safety Guidelines for the Film and Television Industry as well as the Ontario Section 21 Health and Safety Committee COVID-19 Guidance Document.
Road Closures
If filming includes a road closure, a temporary road closure application must be submitted at least ten business days before the closure date. For more information and to download the application form, review the Temporary Road Closure Permit.
Filming with Special Effects
If filming will include any special effects (e.g. pyrotechnics, fireworks, guns), you will need approval from the Chatham-Kent Police Service and the Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue. For more information and to download application forms, review the Pyrotechnics Form in the Special Events section.
Notifying Residents, Occupants and Businesses
Notification must be provided to all affected residents, occupants, and businesses at least 5 days before filming.
NEW: Productions must use the Film Office's new letter of notification template and submit the notification letter for review by staff prior to distribution.
Productions will be required to obtain neighbourhood consent if filming will be taking place outside of the hours of 7 am to 11 pm, in a neighbourhood that has had three of more instances of filming in a calendar year, or in areas deemed sensitive for other reasons (at the Film Office's discretion).
Productions must use the revised neighbourhood canvassing template below and contact the Film Office for a map of affected residents and businesses.
Notification templates are available:
- Notification Letter Template
- Neighbourhood Canvassing Template
Step 3 - Film Permit Payment
Staff will notify you when your permit has been approved and is ready for payment.
The Chatham-Kent Film Office has moved to a contactless permitting process. Permits and associated fees must be paid by credit card over the phone at 519-360-1998. Staff will email a detailed invoice and receipt along with the approved permit.
Prior to submitting your application, review:
- Special Effects Filming - use Pyrotechnics/Fireworks Form in Special Events
- Traffic Rules & Road Closure Permit
