The Film Ready NJ certification is a 5-step program designed to help municipalities and counties in New Jersey accommodate on-location film and television production. It educates local officials about the basics of production, including ordinances, permitting, industry standards, and public safety.

The Film Ready program aims to position New Jersey as a top filming destination by certifying communities that can effectively support productions. Participants receive training from industry professionals and gain a toolkit to attract and support film crews. The program is managed by the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission and connects local communities with film professionals for streamlined production processes.

For more information about the Film Ready Program requirements, please review the document below. Comments can be submitted to filmreadynj@njeda.gov. The public comment period closes Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at 5:00 PM EST.

Film Ready Requirements and Fee Schedule

Film Ready New Jersey

An initiative of the NJMPTVC, Film Ready New Jersey is a 5-step certification and marketing program that educates municipalities on the basics of motion picture and television production and enables cities and towns to effectively accommodate on location filming and market their communities as filming destinations. The program sets basic standards for attracting filmmaking and positions the state as a top production destination. The “film-ready” designation provides an elevated platform for certified communities to promote themselves as filming destinations and connects film and TV professionals with skilled and knowledgeable liaisons across the state, who can provide local expertise and support to create easier, faster and better access to nearby resources and location information.

Workshop

Municipal governments will be invited to participate in a one-day workshop, the first step towards certification. Representatives will receive training and guidance from industry professionals, local mayors and NJMPTVC Commissioners and staff, and learn about the economic impact of hosting on-location filming, ordinances and permitting, opportunities for small businesses, and the expanding infrastructure. Participants will walk away with a toolkit to attract and welcome productions to their community and learn about the necessary steps required to become a certified Film Ready Community. The day will end with a fireside chat featuring other Mayors and industry professionals who’ve seen success in this industry.

The workshop will also feature Film Ready Police + Fire, designed to educate and train police and fire chiefs in public safety and motion picture and entertainment safety.