1. What resources can the City of Ann Arbor provide to a location manager or film director looking to film on City of Ann Arbor property?
City of Ann Arbor staff will assist industry professionals by facilitating the permitting process and acting as a liaison with city departments for productions being filmed in Ann Arbor or on city-owned property. The city will also field and properly route related inquiries received from the public.
2. What permits will be required to film on City of Ann Arbor property?
Required permits for filming are dependent on each unique film production needs, but a list of common permits and fees are listed on this website.
3. How long does the permitting process take?
The Permitting process depends on the project type. Please see the permits and application link in the left navigation bar for specific permit fees and average processing times.
4. What forms need to be submitted to the city before a production can be filmed on City of Ann Arbor property?
A Film and Video Location Agreement must be completed and submitted to the City of Ann Arbor prior to production work being approved on city-owned property. This is a free application. All film companies, regardless of location, must contact the City of Ann Arbor Fire Marshal prior to filming to ensure proper precautions are taken regarding life and fire safety needs. If filming on city-owned property, then a completed Film and Video Location application is required. Completed application can be e-mailed to lwondrash@a2gov.org or faxed to Lisa Wondrash at (734) 794-6159. Prior to the application being approved, you will be contacted regarding your film request and a meeting with City staff will be scheduled to explore film needs.
5. Why do I need to fill out an insurance requirement form?
The insurance forms are needed to protect the City from liability during a film production. Please see list of insurance requirements on the forms webpage for more information.
6. Would I need to fill out an insurance form for a small project (example commercial or a short story)? And if so, are there different insurance requirements?
Yes, insurance forms are necessary for all projects. Insurance requirements may vary depending on the project. Please contact Mary Fales in the City's Attorney Office at (734) 794-6187 or e-mail mfales@a2gov.org for more information.
7. Who is a general contact at the City of Ann Arbor if I am interested in filming in Ann Arbor or on city-owned property?
Please contact Communications Unit Manager Lisa Wondrash at (734) 794-6152 or e-mail lwondrash@a2gov.org.
8. How can I receive a film resources directory and/or Michigan Production Guide?
Contact the Michigan Film Office at www.michiganfilmoffice.org.