FAQs for Adding a Location

Why should I list my property in the film locations database?

Revenue
Film production can be a cool new source of additional revenue for you and/or your business! Location fees are negotiable and can range from $100 per day to $20,000 per day or more!

Promotional & Tourism Value
For businesses, having a film shoot at your location can actually lead to more customers! Local media outlets like to update the public on where filming has or will be taking place which gives your business exposure! If the film is a hit, people might visit your location just to see where the movie was filmed!

Benefits to the Local Economy
The film industry makes a massive impact on the economy. Even tiny films can spend thousands of dollars a day on catering, accommodations, and transportation services. Films also employ local actors and crew members including people who specialize in work across various sectors of employment.

Film productions need a lot of locations, and they want to film where they have accessible options. Even if a film doesn’t film on your property, the fact that your property is listed as an option lets producers know that York County is welcoming to film productions.

It Can Be Super Fun!
A film coming to your location can be a fun and exciting experience! It’s an opportunity to learn about the craft of making movies and hosting a film production can be a source of pride for everyone involved.

What do I need to submit my property?

In order to submit your property, you’ll need at least one photo and a detailed description of the property. If known, please include the architectural style and age of any buildings. Listing details that you’d like to highlight makes your property more searchable in the database!

How many pictures should I submit?

There is no limit on the number of photos you can submit! If your property has multiple features (multiple buildings, acreage, or distinguishing features) make sure to include photos of everything!

How much should I charge for the use of my property?

There is no hard and fast rule for how much a location owner should charge as their rental fee. A good place to begin the negotiation is your monthly mortgage or rent payment for each day of filming.

 Things to consider…

 Production Budget: Film productions come in all shapes and sizes, and budgets can vary from $0 to $200 Million. Some films will be able to offer you a lot of money, and some will only be able to ask for a favor.

 Convenience Factor: Is your business typically closed one or more days per week? Is the producer willing to work around your existing schedule or will the production cause a disruption?

 Alternative Compensation: Is there something the Producer can give you that more valuable than money? A small roll in the film for you or someone you know? A meet and greet with the star of the film? A promotional video for your business or a music video for nephew’s band? Are you open to accepting compensation in forms other than money? That’s up to you!

What happens if a movie or TV show is interested in filming on my property?

Step One: Inquiry
If a producer is interested in filming on your property, they will contact the PA Film Office who will facilitate the connection.

Step Two: Location Scouting
If both the production and the owner are interested in moving forward, members of the film crew will visit your property to see it for themselves and assess the viability of filming there. They need to assess the creative and logistical opportunities and obstacles to make sure that everything will go smoothly if the movie ends up filming there.

Step Three: Negotiation
Both parties must agree on a price, rules, restrictions, and scheduling.

Step Four: Preparation
Some films may need to redecorate or prep your property in some other way. If this is the case, it’s on them to make those changes in accordance with your rules.

Step Five: Filming
Film Production can be a stressful and intensive process. There can be a lot of people flying around and schedules can be very tight. It is not uncommon for the producer to request that you remain off-site or well out of the way as the production team does their work.

Step Six: Wrap
Once filming is completed, it is the production’s responsibility to ensure that your property is cleaned up and returned to its pre-filming condition.

How will my property be protected as a filming location?

The general expectation across the film industry is that the film crew will leave your property in the same or better condition than they found it. That said, it doesn’t always go down that way. Luckily there are some standard practices that serve to protect your property from damage.

Production Insurance
Production should always carry insurance to cover unforeseen damages to your property. You can request a certificate of insurance to prove that such coverage is in place.

Security Deposit
If the film has a budget that can support one, it is possible to negotiate a security deposit to protect your property in the event of damages.

What if my question isn’t listed?

Please reach out to us at contact@yorkfilmoffice.com and we’ll be happy to assist you!