Recognizing the immense cultural, economic, and artistic value that the film industry brings to our community, Sarnia is committed to fostering an environment where creativity can flourish and stories can be told. We stand ready to support filmmakers in their endeavors to bring their visions to life.
In 2024, the City of Sarnia adopted a guideline for film permit applications. Our goal is to ensure the City’s requirements are clearly and easily outlined by providing this guideline and application form, and by providing a point of contact to assist you in this process.
Film permits are required for all location filming within the city and film permit applications are to be filed with us at least 10 days in advance of shooting. This is to allow time for the application to be circulated to relevant departments for review.
Review the Film Permit Guideline found below to understand City policies and permit fees, and how to complete a successful film permit application. The guideline also provides information about noise by-law control, safety guidelines, street closures, drone filming, etc.
Review the current rates and fees for using municipal properties, requesting road closures, etc. The fees are outlined in the 2025 Approved Fees for Services document.
Complete the Application form using the webform or downloading the application form found below. To submit the PDF, email invest@sarnia.ca.
Pay the Film Permit Application Fee. The application fee is $65 per location for the first 6 locations. Non-profit, charitable, and student productions are exempt from the fee upon documentation of the same. Payment can be made online at Online Services – City of Sarnia.
The Application is circulated to the relevant City departments for review. You will then be contacted by a member of our team with any comments and direction on next steps.
To film on City-owned property, such as arenas, roads, parking lots, rights of way, parks, municipally owned buildings, etc., a Certificate of Insurance evidencing $5 million (minimum) comprehensive liability insurance is required. The Corporation of the City of Sarnia must be included as additional insured. An indemnity agreement with the City will be required and a deposit may also be required.
Please review the Guideline for any other requirements.
