City Guide Filming in Brooklyn Bridge Park, NY
Production Permit Fees
- Permit Fee: $25
Minimum Insurance
- Commercial General Liability
- Worker’s Compensation
- Commercial Property Insurance
- Automobile Liability
- Aviation Insurance Coverage
- UAS/Drone Insurance
- Product Liability Insurance:
- Liquor Liability Insurance:
Additional Permits
Discounts
About Brooklyn Bridge Park
The Brooklyn Bridge Park, as the name suggests, is not so far from the famous Brooklyn Bridge in New York and spreads over 85 acres of land, where it offers countless recreational opportunities for visitors pouring in from all over. Situated on the Brooklyn side of the East River, this park features iconic attractions such as the Main Street Parks, Fulton Ferry Landing, numerous playgrounds, Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway, iconic residential buildings, the Tobacco Warehouse, and Empire Stores – the last two mentions here date back to the nineteenth century! The park's iconic appearance and design are credited to Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, the architecture firm that designed the park’s landscape. Today, the park is managed by the Brooklyn Bridge Park Corporation, a non-profit organization working for the maintenance, construction, and further aggrandization of the park premises.
Brooklyn overall has been featured numerous times in several iconic Hollywood entries, such as Three Days of the Condor, The Secret Life of Pets, Enchanted, Saturday Night Fever, John Wick, The Bone Collector, Donnie Brasco, New Year's Eve, Black Rain, Sophie's Choice, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, The Day the Earth Stood Still, Death Wish, Inside Man, and I Am Legend. The area is iconic in this regard, naturally making Brooklyn Bridge Park a center of attention for filmmakers and tourists. But before you dash to the park in haste to feature it in your next film project, why not briefly review the filming guidelines in Brooklyn Bridge Park so that there is no confusion down the road? Let's take a look at how you can get a permit to film on the park premises, what are the prerequisites for getting one, how much will it cost you, and more.
Plus, when you do come over, you won’t have to search for suitable filming venues in the vicinity of the park area. Instead, you can browse through our picks for the best filming venues in Brooklyn Bridge Park and book your favorites with only a click or a tap!
Do I Need a Filming Permit in Brooklyn Bridge Park?
Yes, filmmakers must get a filming permit before they can film on the park premises, as per the filming guidelines in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Also, it is noteworthy that general filming permits issued by the NYC Mayor's Office of Film, Theatre, and Broadcasting are NOT valid for the park premises, which means that you’ll have to get a permit directly from the park management to film here. The Brooklyn Bridge Park Corporation manages all the affairs concerning the park and will issue the permit upon request. Plus, on top of a simple filming permit, you’ll also need additional approval from the local authorities under special circumstances, for instance:
To use fire-based special effects, a pyrotechnics permit must be acquired from the local fire safety department
To use animals in film production, you must first acquire an animal control permit from the local animal control department
To use aircraft/helicopters in film production, especially a low-flying one, in the film project, you must acquire an aircraft usage permit from the local aviation authority
Besides filming permits, the park also issues:
Special Event Permits
Wedding Ceremony Permits
Athletic Permits
Discounted filming permits for students and non-commercial filmmakers
Permit Management in Brooklyn Bridge Park
Brooklyn Bridge Park Corporation
Normally you would approach the NYC Mayor's Office of Film, Theatre, and Broadcasting for general filming permits, but when it comes to filming permits in Brooklyn Bridge Park, you must get a filming permit from the park management. Additional permits may also be required in your case, such as for using camera drones, pyrotechnics, animals, and so on, and if that is the case, permission for these will be given by the concerned departments. Even though the NYC Mayor's Office of Film, Theatre, and Broadcasting can't issue permits for the park premises, you can always count on them to provide assistance with the production efforts, share online resources to help you make informed decisions, and help you liaise with the local authorities regarding your project.
Also, in case you want to visit the film office, you can do so – they’re located at 1697 Broadway, Suite 602, New York, NY 10019. But coming back to Brooklyn Bridge Park, you can get your permit without having to visit the park in person via their online portal, which allows you to "E-Apply” for a permit. All you have to do is to go through the terms and conditions for the permit being issued, share your contact information and assorted details, and that’s pretty much it. Usually, the park requires the permit application to be handed in at least 21 days in advance, but there are some exceptions to this rule. Also, you’ll have to mention whether or not you wish to incorporate fire-based special effects, dangerous stunts, automobiles, and so on, in your film project when filing your application.
What Insurance Do I Need in Brooklyn Bridge Park?
The park management makes it abundantly clear in the terms and conditions for the issuance of filming permits that the production insurance requirements in Brooklyn Bridge Park are not constant but instead depend on the extent of risk associated with your project. Production insurance is important as it serves as a guarantee that the film production will be able to compensate any personal injury claim, product liability claim, automobile accident claim, and so on, associated with their work. Thus, the more complex the production and the risker the setup, the higher the production insurance coverage will be – and it makes perfect sense since the odds of a risky stunt going wrong are much higher as compared to, let’s say, a random slip-and-fall accident. Although the exact limits for insurance coverage are variable, there are some baseline insurance requirements that you should know of:
You’ll have to produce $1 million per occurrence in commercial general liability coverage with a $2 million aggregate
You’ll also need commercial property insurance coverage for any possible damage to any tools, equipment, staging, and other forms of property owned or rented, as covered by the ISO Special Causes of Loss Form (CP 10 30)
You must also acquire worker's compensation insurance coverage for all workers and employees associated with your project, as per the labor laws in the state of New York
$1 million per incident in comprehensive business automobile liability insurance coverage is also mandatory for any vehicles (owned, leased, or rented) involved
If you wish to use aircraft/helicopters in the shooting, then $5 million will be needed in aviation liability insurance coverage
If you wish to use a watercraft in the film project, then a $1 million insurance policy for watercraft liability must be separately acquired
$1 million in product liability insurance coverage must be arranged if you wish to serve food to the crew
$1 million in liquor liability insurance coverage will be similarly needed if you’re planning to serve alcohol
The limits may exceed the aforementioned in your case if yours is a highly complex production involving serious risk. Plus, on top of getting the aforementioned insurance coverage, you must also list the following as additionally insured against any liability claims that arise due to your filming activities:
Brooklyn Bridge Park Corporation d/b/a Brooklyn Bridge Park
New York State Urban Development Corporation d/b/a Empire State Development Corporation
Brooklyn Bridge Park Development Corporation
The State of New York
The City of New York
NYC Department of Parks and Recreation
All employees, representatives, officers, agents, assigns, successors, directors, and commissioners associated with the aforementioned
If you can’t meet any of these requirements, you’ll need to explain in writing why you can’t meet the requirement to the Office. They will determine if the shoot can go ahead without the necessary insurance.
Note that these requirements are minimum requirements. Larger and more complex shoots may require additional insurance which will be determined by the Office.
What Kind of Filming Locations Are Available in Brooklyn Bridge Park?
The filming laws in Brooklyn Bridge Park we’ve been discussing are only part of the equation – you’re probably wondering what kind of options you have when filming in Brooklyn Bridge Park, and now, we’ll answer that question! Brooklyn Bridge Park itself is sectioned into Piers 1 to 6, all of which house certain unique attractions of the park, such as the Empire-Fulton Ferry, Empire Stores, Main Street Parks, a ton of playgrounds, the Tobacco Warehouse, and more. Also, the park is a segment of the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway, which is a chain of biking routes and parks stretching all over Brooklyn.
But what about the numerous filming venues for rent dotting the Brooklyn Bridge area? Well, those are also only a stroll away, and you don’t even need a permit for those. Top of the list, we have facilities built specifically for filming and recording, such as the Spacious Natural Light Modern Production Studio, Recording Studio with a lush vibe & epic rooftop view, Brooklyn Studio with tons of natural light, and Bright Daylight Photo Studio near the Brooklyn Navy Yard – all of these are fully equipped, offer ample lighting to filmmakers, are well furnished, and most of all, fit any number of themes/ideas for a script.
You can also try out the Industrial Loft near the Navy Yard, which is a themed interior – fully furnished and well-lit. Lustro is another themed filming venue available for rent featuring massive windows giving a panoramic display of the city, and the interior is dotted with tropical plants. Or perhaps a glimpse into the past is what you’re looking for, and if that is indeed the case, then the 19th Century Warehouse would be ideal for you. If you wish to film your food prep sessions in style, then the Kitchen City Studio Space is almost more than you can ask for. Maybe you're looking for a more homely environment, and if that is the case, then Shapira's Atlantic Loft will be simply perfect, and if you want the same feeling in an antique or historical setting, then the Furnished Vintage House is just the one for you.
Not to worry, the list does not end here – this is only the beginning! Giggster lists some of the most iconic filming venues for rent not only in Brooklyn but also elsewhere. Check out our listings today and take your pick after a thorough review of all the details.
Special Requirements in Brooklyn Bridge Park
Filming Hours
The park timings are 6 AM to 1 AM, you may only film within this time duration.
No Loudspeakers
Any form of amplified sound, such as that coming from a loudspeaker, is strictly prohibited within the park’s premises.
No Exclusive Access
The park management will not give you exclusive access to the park facilities for your film production efforts. Instead, you’ll be sharing the space with the park’s visitors. Please be mindful of their privacy concerns while you’re at it. Also, you may not obstruct any route or the flow of traffic within the park for your filming efforts.
Limitations On Alcohol Serving
You may only serve alcohol (if that is part of your script) in certain designated areas of the park – be sure to discuss this limitation with the park management before you continue.
No Drone Filming
The use of camera drones for filming is strictly prohibited within and near the park premises, with absolutely no exceptions.
Limitations On The Use Of Pyrotechnics
Normally, flammable substances are not allowed in the park, but you can get special approval from the park's management to let you use pyrotechnics for your film production. If you do get the park's approval, then you should get the fire safety department involved in the safe usage of these fire-based special effects.
Clean Up
You're also required to leave the filming zone as it was before your arrival, no littering is allowed, and if you did litter a bit, you must clean it before leaving.
Filming On Weekends
Filming permits are only issued for weekdays, not weekends, by the park – you can only film on weekdays on the permit issued by the park management. There are no exceptions to this rule.
Permit Denial/Termination
Your permit application may be denied or an issued permit be terminated if one of the following turns out to be true: Your filming activities are causing interference/disturbance in the regular park activities You had a permit revocation within the three past years for your project If you failed to submit the required fees, fines, charges, rent, etc. If a condition for the permit being issued has not been met If you were found in violation of the terms and conditions for the use of the permit.
What Does it Cost to Film in Brooklyn Bridge Park?
You must pay for your filming privileges and for accessing the park premises depending on the extent of usage as per the filming regulations in Brooklyn Bridge Park. These costs for filming are on top of your equipment rental (or the cost of equipment, in case you buy) and hiring costs. These costs are decided by the Brooklyn Bridge Park Corporation, but some of the costs are shared in advance: Applying for a filming permit costs $25 (non-refundable) If you’re paying via credit card, an additional $1 will be charged Students and non-commercial filmmakers can get their permits for $7.50 The venue rent will be charged as a flat fee depending on the duration (half day/full day) and crew size In case you wish to feature multiple locations, additional rent will be charged On top of this, you may also require police assistance or an on-set fire safety inspection – if that is the case, you'll have to reach out to these departments for their cooperation. They will charge you by the hour for any services rendered. These payments, all of them combined, are quite fair considering what they afford you in return.
Additional Fees
Additional expenses might include hiring security personnel or paying for parking for crew and equipment.
Geographical Jurisdiction of Brooklyn Bridge Park?
The filming laws in Brooklyn Bridge Park apply exclusively to the park premises. For instance, as mentioned earlier, the general filming permits issued by the NYC Mayor's Office of Film, Theatre, and Broadcasting are not applicable to the premises of Brooklyn Bridge Park. The 85 acres constituting the park premises are the full extent of the area to which the rules discussed here apply. Brooklyn Bridge Park is located on the Brooklyn side of the East River. To the south, it is bound by Atlantic Avenue, to the north, its boundary is marked by Jay Street, to the west, it is bordered by the East River, and the western boundary is marked by the rest of the city.
Outreach in Brooklyn Bridge Park
Unlike filming in residential areas and neighborhoods, there is no requirement on your part, as per the Brooklyn Bridge Park filming laws, to notify the locals. Once you get your permit to film in the areas requested, you can get started as per schedule. You won’t have to send any notification letters beforehand – but do keep in mind that you won’t get exclusive access to the park premises; you will be sharing that space with the visitors.
Community Management in Brooklyn Bridge Park
Overall, Brooklyn has a very warm and accepting community; the area is also ranked among the best places to live in New York. We’ve also seen that the filming regulations in Brooklyn Bridge Park don’t oblige you to reach out to the residents for a survey, or post notifications before you can film in the area. You shouldn’t have any troubles when filming in the park. However, non-compliance with the park rules and regulations, such as the use of loudspeakers (which is strictly prohibited) can lead to issues with the management and even termination of the permit.
Just play by the rules and everything will be fine!
Conclusion
The filming guidelines in Brooklyn Bridge Park are a bit different from what you'll experience in the rest of New York City, but they are not hard to follow at all. Plus, Brooklyn Bridge Park is a very impressive place featuring iconic attractions by the East River. You’ll simply fall in love with the highly immersive and uplifting atmosphere that the place offers – many describe it as welcoming, soothing, and relaxing. If you wish to explore the athletics facilities, then get ready for a surge of adrenaline like no other. The Brooklyn Bridge Park Corporation has done an excellent job maintaining and further improving the park’s many facilities and venues.
Brooklyn overall has enjoyed screentime on iconic titles like Three Days of the Condor, The Day the Earth Stood Still, I Am Legend, and The Secret Life of Pets, so don’t feel as if you’re landing on the moon or something – the locals understand what it means to have a film production operate in the area. Plus, you can get a permit from the park management to film your project in the designated areas without worry. And if you wish to incorporate more of the city outside the park in your project, you can always rent a couple of filming venues in Brooklyn with excellent views of the cityscape to get the most out of your project. And if you do choose to do that, you can count on Giggster to list the most premium filming venues for rent in the area and beyond!