Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Film Office?

The Film Office guides productions to the best resources, people and locations. We maintain a broad database of contacts to better assist productions with finding the right people to bring their production together quickly. Our website provides permit and locations information. Our online Production Resource Guide provides information on crew, local vendors and support service. We maintain a website, respond to inquiries, help productions with the permit process, make referrals to local services such as hotels, equipment rentals etc., and act as a liaison between the production and the local community to ensure production goes smoothly. We also educate the local community about the economic benefits of production by working with and supporting the Sedona International Film Festival and the Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking.

How does the Film Office assist with Location Scouting?

We have a digital photo location database and an online photo gallery. Images are available on request of our clients. Our small Film Office does not have scouts in-house. We do have excellent location scouts and services in our area. Local location scouts know the area and are familiar with the local permit policies and procedures. Visit our online Production Resource Guide for a complete list of location scouts, managers and services.

Do I need a permit and who handles permitting?

Most productions shooting in Sedona plan to shoot on the Coconino National Forest. Complete guidelines and requirements for filming on these USFS lands can be found on the Filming in Sedona page of our website.

Permitting is relatively easy when companies follow procedure and are fully prepared when it comes time to apply for the permit.
It is important to have all of your locations identified with a land description as you must provide this detail in your application.
If your company can not send a location scout in advance of your production dates or you are unfamiliar with the area, the Film Office can guide you to some popular red rock locations that are permitted by the US Forest Service. We highly recommend hiring a local location scout.
A City of Sedona permit is $50 per shoot and is only required when filming on City property and when interrupting vehicular and/or pedestrian traffic. You should, however, contact the City to provide your certificate of insurance listing the city as additionally insured and to let the City determine whether a permit is needed. They will also contact the appropriate City authorities to let them know when you will be on site filming.
No permit is required for productions that are wholly contained on private property.
Permits and liability insurance protect you and your company. If someone is hurt or a piece of equipment is broken, you need that protection in order to be reimbursed.
The Film Office is not a permitting authority, therefore, we do not process permits or insurance certification. We refer productions to the appropriate agencies once you have selected your location(s). We can also assist with logistical questions.

How are you related to the Sedona International Film Festival?

Although we support each others efforts, the festival is a separate organization. The Film Office is a division of the Sedona Chamber of Commerce and operates year round to promote the filming of print, commercials, television and movie productions in Sedona. The Sedona International Film Festival is a non-profit organization that plans year-round events and the annual festival in February which showcases independent films from around the world. To learn more about SIFF, visit their website at www.sedonafilmfestival.com

How do I get work as a crew person on a local production?

The best way is to post your listings in our online Production Resource Guide. Two free listings are available to any Arizona resident and/or business. When productions ask for crew, vendor and support service information they are referred to the Production Resource Guide. Sedona locals and Chamber of Commerce members are recommended first. You may also submit your resume to keep on file at the Film Office, but signing up on the Production Resource Guide is your best option. Many productions automatically go directly to the Production Guide on the site as they already know that the resources are listed there.

Can journalists and fans visit "the set"?

Generally not. Prior permission from their publicist or producer is a must as many shows have very strict contractual agreements regarding publicity and onlookers. Additionally, as they are on tight deadlines, (and actor salaries and equipment rentals are very expensive), it is imperative that shooting not be slowed down by visitors.