FAQs about shooting in Metro Orlando
	FAQs for locals

 

 

• Location Assistance: contact us with your location needs and we’ll send you a customized digital location package, accessible anytime from anywhere .
• One-Stop Permitting: streamlined permitting process for jurisdictions in Orange, Seminole, Lake and Osceola counties and the City of Orlando.
• Orlando Filmbook: a comprehensive guide for all your production needs with categorized listings of people and companies that provide goods and services to the industry.
• Production Assistance: information and assistance regarding accommodations, transportation, catering services, etc. is available

Q: What incentives are available to productions?
A. The State of Florida offers an up-front sales tax exemption for qualified productions, while the City of Orlando offers a television network cash incentive. Visit our Incentives page to find out more.

Q: Do I need a permit to shoot in Orlando?
A. Permits are required for most types of production projects. The Film Commission offers a streamlined permit process for all city and county jurisdictions in the Metro Orlando region. These cities and counties all have their own permit requirements and the Film Commission is your best source for information. Visit our Permitting page to find out more.

Q: How much does a production permit cost?
A. The Film Commission does not charge for their permitting services, although there are some communities that do have fees associated with shooting. Additionally, there may be other services needed from government agencies that require a fee, such as off-duty officers. Visit our Permitting page to find out more.

Q: How long does it take to get a permit?
A. Most jurisdictions require a minimum of five days to process a permit, which is stated in their motion photography production ordinance. Remember that a number of sign-offs from different departments are required which takes time. Visit our Permitting page to find out more.

Q: Does Orlando have a large enough crew-base to support my project?
A. Orlando has an extremely sophisticated and talented crew base that is large enough to crew three film projects simultaneously. A list of Orlando crew is available through the Orlando Filmbook Online. Crew lists from past television and feature projects filmed are also available to producers upon request by e-mailing Jennifer@filmorlando.com.

Q: What's the weather like in Orlando?
A. Orlando's moderate climate offers the ability for year-round production and has the unique advantage of remaining green all year with lush foliage including oaks, magnolias, pine and azaleas. Visit our Weather page to find out more.

Q: How can I get a copy of the Orlando Filmbook?
A. The Orlando Filmbook, a comprehensive guide to the production industry in Metro Orlando, is available free-of-charge to inquiring production companies/producers/etc. who are looking to bring production to our region. It can also be purchased by anyone for $25. All you have to do is fill out the Filmbook request form or call 407.422.7159.

Q: Where can I find stock footage of Orlando?
A. The Film Commission does not have stock footage, but you can check the Filmbook Online for local stock footage suppliers. For stills or video footage, you can also try the Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. at 407.363.5800 or the news departments at the local network affiliates.

Q: Can the Film Commission help me find a job?
A. No. The Film Commission is not an employment agency. However, at the request of specific projects, we do post any employment opportunities on our website. Visit our Industry Resources section to find out more. Also, many projects look to hire local crew members. The best way to guarantee that you are being considered for local work, is to make sure you are listed in the Orlando Filmbook. Visit our Get Listed page to find out more.

Q: How do I find out what productions are currently shooting in Orlando?
A. Orlando is home to various production projects at any given time. Some projects have a quick turn-around, especially commercials. Unfortunately, information can only be shared after the company gives us permission, which most are reluctant to do. While some of the projects may already be fully crewed, many are looking to hire local crew members. The best way to guarantee that you are being considered for local work, is to make sure you are listed in the Orlando Filmbook. Visit our Get Listed page to find out how to apply for a listing.

Q: I'm a local independent filmmaker. Can the Film Commission help get my movie made?
A. While the Film Commission is not involved in the actual production, financing or distribution of films, we can provide assistance with location scouting, permitting, production resources and contact information to help your project get underway. Once your project is complete, we can also assist in public relations opportunities. A good resource is the website for Independent Feature Project: The Source for Independent Filmmakers at www.ifp.org.

Q: I've written a great screenplay. Can you help me get it to a literary agent or producer?
A. The Film Commission does not market scripts to agents or producers. We recommend that you secure a literary agent, who can assist you with more information. As a first step, visit the website for the Writers Guild of America at www.wga.org.

Q: How do I get started in the production industry?
A. Establish contacts and network! There are several networking opportunities within the Orlando production community of which you should take advantage. Visit our Local Resources section to find out more. Internships are always a good idea. Internships with professors, local TV stations, or local production companies can certainly lead to a career in the industry. Working for school credit will provide you with the kind of information that is not available in the classroom.

Q: I am an actor looking for work. How do I find out which projects are casting in Orlando?
A. The Film Commission does not work directly with talent, although the local talent pool is an important incentive and attractive element for anyone shooting in Orlando. Orlando features many talent agencies and casting directors that list in the Orlando Filmbook Online. Orlando also has a branch of the Screen Actor's Guild, who could provide more information on casting opportunities. If a project has an open casting call, we will list it in our Industry Resources section of our website whenever the production company makes that information available.

Q: How can I be an extra?
A: The Film Commission posts any extra/talent opportunities for current productions on our website whenever the production company makes that information available. Visit our Industry Resources section to find out more.

Q: My child is beautiful and talented. How can I get him/her in the business?
A: Begin by contacting a talent agent, who can help guide you and your child through the required steps of becoming an actor. Orlando features many talent agencies that list in the Orlando Filmbook Online. The Orlando branch of the Screen Actor's Guild also has a list of reputable talent agents. Your child should begin to get training in the arts whether in school or outside the classroom, such as the Orlando Youth Theatre and Academy.

Q: My car is a classic/one-of-a-kind. How can I get it in the business?
A: Visit the Picture Cars category of our Orlando Filmbook Online for a complete listing of companies in the Metro Orlando region. You should contact them directly for further information on representation.

Q: My pet is cute and talented. How can I get my him/her in the business?
A: Visit the Animal Trainer/Handler/Wrangler category of our Orlando Filmbook Online for a complete listing of trainers in the Metro Orlando region. You should contact them directly for further information on representation.

Q: Does the Film Commission provide opportunities for internships?
A: The Film Commission offers unpaid internships to college students seeking academic credit. Student internships may be available on a quarterly basis year-round, coinciding with your school's semester or quarter. E-mail info@filmorlando.com for more information.