City Guide Filming in Nashville, TN
Production Permit Fees
- Permit Application: $130
Minimum Insurance
- General Liability Insurance Coverage
- Insurance Coverage For Any Damage Done To Metropolitan Structures
- Worker’s Compensation Insurance Coverage
- Automobile Liability Coverage
- Aviation Insurance Coverage
- UAS/Drone Insurance Coverage
- Watercraft Insurance Coverage:
- Product Liability Insurance Coverage
- Liquor Liability Insurance Coverage
- Police & Firefighter Monitoring
Additional Permits
Discounts
About Nashville
Nashville has much more to boast than its impressive history and its relevance to the civil war; the city embraces the Cumberland River and presents breathtaking spectacles both within its urban centers and the surrounding areas. The city is predominantly hilly, but that doesn’t keep it from presenting an awe-inspiring cityscape. Nashville is Tennessee’s state capital and also happens to be the most populous city in the state.
Nashville has been long known as "Music City" for rather obvious reasons. It is not unusual at all to find the atmosphere loaded with lyrics and rhythm, especially on the all-time famous Honky Tonk Highway, where the music does not stop for most of the day (and night). Motion pictures and TV series have also had a deep love affair with the city – Hollywood production has deep roots here; titles like The Green Mile, The Matrix, The Last Castle, Nashville, Road Trip, Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief, Stoker, and Shut In were shot here, and the list goes on!
If you, too, feel like picking Nashville as your next film production destination, kudos to you! But it’s also important to understand the filming guidelines in Nashville before you move ahead with your project – we’ve got you covered here, no worries. Also, you can count on Giggster, as always, to help you pick some of the most iconic and sought-after filming destinations in Nashville!
Do I Need a Filming Permit in Nashville?
In short: yes! You must never presume that your filming project can proceed without a permit. As per the filming laws in Nashville, you need to reach out to The Office Of Film And Special Events, Nashville for a filming permit, and some extra permits may also be needed from relevant authorities as per the script's needs. You can also find a detailed film production permit and location agreement from the Nashville Film Office website which details what requirements you have to fulfill to get filming permits in Nashville.
Besides general film permits, you might also need a ROW permit (short for right-of-way) if you're planning to use public right-of-way (a street, walkway, etc.) for your film production, whether you're filming in the area or using it as a parking space. And on top of these two permits, a film production also needs to sign a location agreement. The exact requirements for getting a film permit will differ depending on the nature of your script, where you're filming, and so on. For instance, if you're planning on using pyrotechnics or special effects involving explosions and fire, you'll need a special permit for that, and similarly, if animals are involved in filming, or if you're filming on school premises.
Permit Management in Nashville
The Office Of Film And Special Events, Nashville
General film permits are issued by The Office Of Film And Special Events, Nashville, as we mentioned earlier, and all you have to do here is to submit your application, read and sign any associated agreements, and provide details of any additional permits, i.e., from the local fire department, if applicable. You’ll have to reach out to the fire department and other local authorities (such as NDOT for a right-of-way permit), meaning that the Film Office will not liaise with these local departments on your behalf. However, the details of the requirements for film permit applicants are clearly mentioned on the website of The Office Of Film And Special Events, so you shouldn’t have much trouble understanding the Nashville filming laws. You’ll also have to reach out to the local departments and authorities for permit issuance for certain areas, such as the Metropolitan Board of Parks and Recreation if you plan on filming in a city park. Permit management may seem a bit complicated, and it is, but considering how huge the filming and music scene is in Nashville, it is all indeed worth it. Plus, you can always reach out to the Film Office at PWEventPermits@nashville.gov or call 615-862-8782.
What Insurance Do I Need in Nashville?
Production insurance is mandatory for all filming crews in Nashville, as with other cities and regions. This insurance coverage (can be more than one policy) is set in place to ensure that all employees, contractors, and workers who are a part of the filming crew (or anyone else who may be affected by an accident) are covered fully for their losses. $1,000,000 is the minimum limit for insurance policies attached with the permit application. The exact extent of insurance coverage varies with the level of perceived threat, i.e., if dangerous stunts are involved, or pyrotechnics are a part of the script, the extent of insurance coverage will be more than otherwise. Here is a rough breakdown of production insurance requirements in Nashville:
$1,000,000 insured as general liability
$500,000 minimum insurance coverage for any damage done to a Metropolitan structure
Worker’s compensation insurance coverage as per the state laws applicable in Tennessee
$1,000,000 insured as automobile liability coverage if any cars or motors are involved
$5,000,000 insured as aviation coverage if helicopters or aircraft are involved in the filming
$2,000,000 insured as UAS/drone liability coverage
$1,000,000 insured as watercraft liability coverage if boats or other watercraft are used (in a nearby lake)
$1,000,000 insured as product liability is also needed if food is served to the film production crew
$1,000,000 insured as liquor liability may also be applicable in some cases
You’ll also have to provide documentation naming the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County as additionally insured – the exact wording is very specific, so reach out to the Film Office for more detail.
From the aforementioned, it is very obvious that certain entries such as insurance for automobiles, aircraft, watercraft, UAS, food items, and liquor, are optional. The extent of insurance coverage needed for your project varies with the details of your film’s script. You can check out this sample insurance form for your reference when applying for a film permit.
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 Nashville?
Here, you’ve hit the jackpot! Nashville is loaded with some of the most iconic filming locations in the region, including both indoor and outdoor shooting locales. You’ll find several specific options such as the Atmospheric Professional Music Studio which, you’ve guessed it, is meant for recording music videos. Similarly, the Rustic, Open Concept - Dance Studio Space is also open for filming projects and offers a spacious interior and ample lighting. You can also try out a Multi Set featuring a cyclorama, podcasting station, and green screen.
You also have options like the Modern Lodge near Mount Juliet, which offers a natural, luxurious look coupled with ample lighting and a rich background. Or perhaps something more versatile like the Diverse Content Creation Facility is what you’re looking for if you want to bring music and video together in the equation.
For someone looking for a more themed space, the Industrial Event & Studio Space delivers a unique ambiance with its red brick walls, intricate woodwork, and fully furnished interior presenting an industrial look. Looking for something straight out of the Hollywood dream book? The State of the Art Production Campus is a perfect match – you’ll get a premium recording environment with all the perks and props you need to make your project shine!
Got a thing for lofty spaces? The Multi-Functional Studio might be just perfect for you! With a spacious, sunlight-flooded interior boasting the perfect contrast of wood-brown and milky white, this space is a perfect filming location. Another versatile option is the Multi-use Germantown Venue which offers both indoor and outdoor filming options, plus you get a great cityscape in the background frame. You’ll find pretty much any kind of filming location you’re looking for in Nashville, and the options are numerous, so pick whatever resonates with what you have in mind for your script.
Special Requirements in Nashville
Filming In School Districts
Filming is allowed in local school districts like the Nashville-Davidson County School District, but only when the school buildings are not in use by the students. You'll have to reach out to the school administration, seek their permission in advance, then get some extra permits from the concerned Metro departments, and file a request with the Film Office. For filming on school premises, a general liability insurance coverage of no less than $1 million is necessary; worker's compensation insurance and automobile liability insurance may also be needed.
Filming In Public Parks
You’ll have to get a permit for filming from the Metropolitan Board of Parks and Recreation before you can proceed with your project. You can find their commercial film permit application form online; download it, fill it out, and then mail it to parkphotos@nashville.gov. Also, note that you can use drones in parks but only in designated areas, not throughout.
Street Or Lane Closure For Filming
If your film production requires the closure of certain streets and lanes in the city, you’ll have to reach out to the Metro Nashville Public Works Department. You can find a form online, fill it out, and then submit it to the department's focal person. It would be best to submit the form at least a week before the date you're requesting a closure; you can't make it last minute. You'll just need to fill out this one form even if you have to get multiple streets closed (and even if the closure is not supposed to be at the same time). Also, you’ll need a right-of-way permit if you plan on filming on the street or lane you’ve requested to be closed.
Use of the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
Here, you’ll need approval from the local authorities, and agree to the following fee rates if an SPB usage permit is issued:
$200: if your filming will last for a maximum of one hour
$500: if your filming will last for a maximum of 4 hours
$50 hourly for every hour on top of the 4-hour limit set in the second case
Regulations On The Use Of Drones
The use of drones for filming is allowed in the state of Tennessee, but there are some regulations to keep in mind, and you’ll have to provide the Tennessee Entertainment Commission with the following:
Proof of registration with the FAA
If the UAS does not need to be registered, documented evidence proving that this is the case
A copy of the UAS operator’s certificate showing that they are qualified for the use of the UAS
Spotter’s contact information
Qualifying For Film Production Incentive Programs
The Tennessee Entertainment Commission offers filmmakers certain perks and incentives, be sure to check with them if you qualify for one or more of the following:
Rebate on hotel occupancy tax after 30 days of continuous stay
Rebate on occupancy sales tax after 90 days of continuous stay at a hotel
No state permitting fees
No site rentals for state-owned properties like nearby state parks and lakes
You can reach out to their representatives at tn.entertainment@tn.gov or call (615) 741.3456, for more information.
What Does it Cost to Film in Nashville?
The exact cost of filming in Nashville varies depending on the variables in your script and whether or not you need supervision while filming. Also, the extent of supervision is another factor, plus, you’ve got other things like getting extra permits (if applicable). Overall, the filming regulations in Nashville are not tough, but things may seem a bit complicated at first. If you’re ever confused, it’s best to communicate with the Film Office rather than assuming anything. Here’s a rough breakdown of the filming costs in Nashville, other than site rentals: $130 will be charged as a permit application fee There are no reduced fees for student filming projects, the application fee will remain the same, i.e., $130 The fire department monitoring fee will be charged hourly at $50 per hour Vehicle inspection from the local department will cost $110 hourly, with a minimum of two duty hours for the inspection crew Having police officials on the filming scene, if needed, will cost you about $105.91-$133.97, depending on the rank of the officer Also, if you’re going to park someplace with parking meters and request for those to be blocked, the cost will be around $21 to $42 per meter, per day 15% administrative fee, on top of all the other fees, may also be applicable in some cases. For confirmation, be sure to contact the Film Office The exact fee structure varies, and there is no fixed range to define these costs, and neither does The Office Of Film And Special Events, Nashville mention some of the costs clearly (rider fee, etc.) This is because the complexity of the production will affect the overall costs. Though this may seem a bit laborious, especially when you also have to contact individual departments for permits and inspection, not following through with the filming guidelines in Nashville can lead to the cancellation of your shoot or other penalties. When in doubt, just contact the Film Office and ask for clear instructions.
Additional Fees
You might require additional permits depending on your shoot's specifics in Nashville. For example, if you're filming scenes involving drones, road closures, stunts, or other exceptional circumstances, specific licenses may be necessary, each potentially incurring its fee.
Geographical Jurisdiction of Nashville?
The boundaries of Nashville are defined as per the municipal boundaries code in Tennessee. There are no adjoining major cities, but a network of roads and highways do connect the city with other metropolitan centers. To the northwest are Coopertown and Pleasant View, while Ridgetop and Greenbrier lie to the north, towards the northeast are Millersville, Shackle Island, and Hendersonville. Mt. Juliet lies to the east, Smyrna to the southeast, Nolensville and Franklin to the south, and Fairview to the southwest. To the west lie Pegram, Kingston Springs, and Ashland City. None of these neighboring urban areas compare in size with that of Nashville but are seen as excellent retreats and vacation spots by many. Also, it is noteworthy that the western strip of Nashville, inside the city boundary, is mostly a green zone with several parks and dense vegetation areas.
Outreach in Nashville
Filming crews need to notify all the affected residents and businesses about an oncoming film shoot. This must be done three days in advance, at least, and you must make sure that your filming project does not create any disturbance for the people. The notification must contain the following details:
Closure dates (for any streets and lanes)
The reason for the aforementioned
Production Company’s name and contact details
A detailed note on street closure, reasons, and possible detours that the affectees can use
Contact information of filming crew members must be accessible 24/7
Traffic control worker’s contact information
Here, you’ll enjoy comparatively lighter regulations as you don’t have to go door to door for consent. As per the filming guidelines in Nashville, you’re not obliged to do much at this stage, but noise regulations and other precautions for mitigating public disturbance must be kept in mind.
Community Management in Nashville
Considering how well the people usually respond to the atmosphere of music in the city, it is safe to assume that you won't face any problems from the local community for your filming project. Generally, the natives are described as friendly, and Nashville itself is widely considered a fun and nice place to be. If you understand the filming guidelines in Nashville and adhere to the local laws regarding the use of public property, you should be fine filming in public spaces. Do keep the noise at a minimum; people do like the sound of music, but no one wants their eardrums shaken by your amp.
Conclusion
The city houses a friendly population, the air is filled with the sound of music, and you can find tons of filming locations for all needs. What more can a production crew ask for? Also, getting filming permits in Nashville is not actually as complicated as it first seems when you read about it. In fact, if you just get in touch with The Office Of Film And Special Events, Nashville, you’ll get all the information you need specifically for your production crew. Plus, you’ll find the officials to be very friendly and cooperative. In fact, promoting film production within the city is a policy of the local government.
From purpose-built recording studios to dance studios, from indoor venues to outdoor ones, from music creation facilities to all-purpose filming areas – you'll find pretty much any kind of filming locale you need for your project in Nashville. And in this regard, we've only scratched the surface here – there are tons of options for you to pick from. This also includes venues like parks and green areas for the public where filming is allowed, albeit with some extra requirements. Overall, the city, the atmosphere, and the diversity of environments offered make it a perfect destination for your filming project. Plus, the locals are very friendly and won't hinder your progress if you abide by the rules and regulations.
There are so many reasons why Nashville should be your next filming destination, and we've covered them in fair detail. If you're planning to incorporate the city's magic in your next film, music video, documentary, or TV series, you can count on Giggster to list the best shooting locations available to you!