City Guide Filming in Plano, TX
Production Permit Fees
- Permit Fee: $100
Minimum Insurance
- General Liability: $1 million
- Worker’s Compensation: As per state requirements
- Automobile Liability: $1 million for “owned,” “non-owned,” or “hired”
- Aviation Insurance Coverage: $5 million
- UAS/Drone Insurance: $2 million
Additional Permits
- Police & Firefighter Monitoring: Organized by the Plano Arts & Events Department
Discounts
About Plano
Plano is one of the major metropolitan centers of Texas and a part of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. Sitting in the Collin and Denton Counties, this city has a rich history, an impressive cityscape, diverse local attractions, infrastructure, and a vibrant filming atmosphere. The Texas summers dominate the climate most of the year, while the winters can be mildly cool. Historical buildings such as the Plano Station, Texas Electric Railway, first inaugurated in 1908, and the Heritage Farmstead Museum dating back to 1891 are prominent local attractions for tourists, especially those interested in regional history. Other locations of interest include the Plano Public Library System, a conglomeration of multiple local libraries, the Interurban Railway Museum, and the Plano Symphony Orchestra. Plano is home to numerous celebrities, such as actress Kristin Adams, soccer player Kellyn Acosta, comedian Aaron Aryanpur, voice actress Bryn Apprill, gymnast Alyssa Baumann, and many more. Numerous films have also featured the city. Some prominent examples include Wishbone, Running the Bases, She Gets What She Wants, Fuel, The Anarchist Cookbook, The Inflicted, A Killing in a Small Town, Grand Prix: The Winning Tale, It's in the Water, and The Rodeo Thief. Now that you’ve seen that Plano has an excellent filming atmosphere, you may want to head here yourself, but first, let us look at the filming guidelines in Plano to see what you’ll come across in this process. And don’t forget that Giggster is here for you if you’re looking for the perfect locale.
Do I Need a Filming Permit in Plano?
Yes, all filmmakers require a permit from the city before they can operate in public or seek the assistance of local departments for their production needs. The filming guidelines in Plano are clear on the matter. However, there are exceptions to requiring a permit, such as for solo vloggers or one-person filming crews (in most cases). It is best never to assume that you do not need a permit due to the size of your production efforts and instead reach out to the Plano Arts & Events Department to see if you need a permit. However, when filming on private premises and not requiring any assistance from the city, you will not have to get a permit. Plus, in some cases, additional permits and permissions may also be needed, such as:
Pyrotechnics Permit –
this permit is needed when a film production crew wishes to use fireworks, gunfire, or explosions for their production efforts.
Animal Control Permit –
this permit is needed when a film production wishes to incorporate animals in the film production efforts. You must coordinate your efforts with the local animal control department though.
Aircraft Usage Permit –
this permit is needed when production needs to have helicopters and aircraft in the film project. You must reach out to the local aviation authority for permission and also submit $5 million in liability insurance coverage.
Drone Filming Permit –
this permit is needed when production requires drones for filming some segments or the whole project in public. Additional liability coverage of $2 million plus approval from the aviation authority is needed.
Student/Non-Commercial Filming Permit –
if you're a student or a non-commercial filmmaker, you can take advantage of discounted rates for your filming permit and other associated fees. Reach out to the Plano Arts & Events Department with the required documentation to confirm your status.
Permit Management in Plano
Plano Arts & Events Department
The Plano Arts & Events Department is responsible for issuing filming permits in Plano, and they do much more than that. Plano, as with the rest of Texas, has a pro-filmmaking policy, which means you can expect complete cooperation from all local and state-level agencies for your project. The Plano Arts & Events Department will coordinate with the local fire and police departments to ensure you can use their services without much trouble. But, this assistance does come at a cost — to be paid to the concerned departments, and it goes for all departments involved. You can also get all the online resources and instructions you need from the department’s website and even contact the support staff for more specific discussions. If the department deems your filming activities acceptable, like if there is no catastrophic risk factor involved, for instance, then you can expect your permit handed over to you before your filming starts. To get the permit, you must first log onto the Plano Arts & Events Department’s film permit application portal, put in all the details step-by-step, and then hit the submit button. It is advisable to send in your application and assorted documentation (especially for insurance) at least a week in advance to avoid delays in acquiring your film permit. You don’t have to visit the office in person to get your permit, but if you need to discuss your script and planned activities in detail with a staff member, you can do so as well. Plus, since you’re filming in Texas, you can get refunds and tax credits for all your filming expenses if you qualify for the program. It’s best to stay in touch with the Texas Film Commission and check for your eligibility with the incentive program.
What Insurance Do I Need in Plano?
Production insurance is one of the basic prerequisites for getting your public filming permit. Insurance is essential because all film productions must be completely prepared for every occurrence, including accidents, equipment failure, property damage, and more. Even if your crew wasn’t acting neglectfully and something happened simply by chance, the victim has the right to compensation, and the city will ask you to pay for their losses. Such liability claims are not only possible for risky filming activities such as stunts, car chases, fights, gunfire scenes, and explosion effects. Things can go wrong even under the most usual circumstances. It’s not uncommon to experience at least one or two slip-and-fall accidents, lifting injuries, or muscle sprains and strains during your film production career. The production insurance requirements in Plano are not set in stone, but we have listed the basic requirements for your reference:
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 Plano?
That’s a lot of talk about the filming laws in Plano, right? Well, it’s not all red tape and rules. You have diverse things to look forward to when coming to town. Expect an exceptional cityscape, perfect rooftop views, and a variety of indoor and outdoor environments. Some of the most iconic filming venues for rent include the Creative Photo & Video Studio, a perfectly lit and fully furnished interior ideal for filming and photography. Another similar interior for rent is the Flexible Studio for Video & Photography Shoots. It’s expertly set up, ready to use, fully furnished, and well-lit. If you’re looking for multiple options in one, then the Multi-Creative Colored Sets is what you should look for – an assortment of vividly colored interiors from which you can take your pick. Another purpose-built interior is the European-styled Fine Arts Studio, which is also ready to use and completely furnished. The Spacious Dance Studio is worth a shot if you need space. The venue hosts dozens of aspiring dancers and ballet students daily, so lighting and space are not an issue. But if you need a smaller version of the previous one, the Dance Studio Space for 2 People in Plano is perfect. For a more formal and business-like setup, the Spacious & Flexible Workspace in Plano succeeds in delivering ample space, a cozy location, flexibility, and an authentic office environment. Socializing may be top on your list of elements to depict in your film project. If that is the case, you can’t go wrong with the Two-Sided Indoor Patio in Plano City with its natural light-flooded interior and eye-candy furniture setup. Taking luxury and aesthetics to a whole new level is the Luxury House for Movie Shoots, which leaves no room for speculation in the name — it’s top-notch! Other versatile and themed venues include the Stylish Executive Meeting Room, Coffeehouse with Bar, Business Meeting Space in Historic Downtown Plano, and Fantastic Bar and Restaurant in Plano. These are themed — so you can pick them based on your script needs. But if you’re looking for a one-solution-for-all, then the Multifunctional Events Hall is an excellent indoor space you can tweak to your liking. This list is not the end of things, though. Giggster lists some of the most iconic and premium filming venues and elsewhere. Feel free to browse through our listings and choose what you like the best!
Special Requirements in Plano
Filming In The Plano Independent School District
The Plano Independent School District can allow you to film on their premises if certain conditions are met, and your script (and the filming activities) are deemed acceptable. You’ll have to: Contact the school administration and set up an in-person meeting Present your proposal in the meeting. It is best to do so in person rather than online for greater impact. Discuss the availability of the school premises and then set a schedule for your filming activities. Arrange for $1 million in general liability coverage and also get worker’s compensation insurance. After securing permission to use the school’s premises, be sure to go through the terms and conditions for the given access and ensure complete compliance.
Filming On Properties Managed By The Parks & Recreation Department
You can also film on local neighborhood parks, such as Liberty Park, Haggard Park, Bob Woodruff Park, and Jack Carter Park, all of which are managed by the local Parks & Recreation Department. If you’re planning to film here, you’ll have to hire a staff member from the department on an hourly basis to monitor the shoot and provide on-site assistance. The department also offers technical assistance and equipment if needed, but they aren’t free. You’ll have to get a quote for those.
Filming In Plano Pavilions
There are several pavilions dotted around Plano that you can rent for special events and filming, such as the Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve which spreads on 800 acres of conservation land. Just reach out to the Parks & Recreation Department at least a week in advance for reservations. The only exception is the Haggard Park Pavilion which is managed by the Art Center of Plano (see this brochure for more details).
Using Pyrotechnics For Filming
Filmmakers often use fire-based special effects in films to create the illusion of actual explosions. Though not as destructive, these special effects still do carry a significant level of threat. To use pyrotechnics in public, you'll have to send a written permission request to the local Fire Department. If your application is approved, you'll have to arrange for additional liability coverage (to be determined by the department, as per the level of risk) and hire fire safety officers to secure the filming set.
Using Camera Drones For Filming
Filming with camera drones is again subject to some special rules. Drones are small and easily maneuverable, which means that they can be (potentially) used to spy on people or to invade someone’s privacy – both of which are totally unacceptable. You must ensure responsible use of the drones, get $2 million in drone liability coverage, get a permit from the local aviation authority, and stick to the FAA regulations for using camera drones.
What Does it Cost to Film in Plano?
The filming privileges and assorted support services offered by the city come at costs, mostly predefined by the filming regulations in Plano. You’ll get value for your money here. Local departments, including the Plano Arts & Events Department, will do all it takes to help you with your project, so the additional cost is worth it. Here is a breakdown of the fees and dues payable:
Additional Fees
In addition to all the mentioned, you may also have to pay 15% of these fees as an administrative fee if any city officials are needed on the set.
Geographical Jurisdiction of Plano?
The 71.6 square miles designated as part of Plano City are the extent to which the filming laws in Plano apply. Luckily, Plano has clearly defined borders. To the north, the city is bordered by the Sam Rayburn Tollway, and to the south, the President George Bush Turnpike. The eastern border is marked by Allen, Parker, and Murphy, while the western border is demarcated by Hebron. Plano is some 17 miles north of Downtown Dallas.
Outreach in Plano
If your filming activity can affect the locals, you should inform them in advance so they can prepare/adjust accordingly. Ideally, you must send notification letters to the affected residents and business owners (ask the Plano Arts & Events Department for specifics) at least two business days before your scheduled shoot. The letter must mention details of the filming activities and what people should expect, details of street closure and alternative routes, schedule information, the contact information of someone who can be reached during the filming hours, and anything else you think the locals need to know. Be sure to share the draft with the Plano Arts & Events Department to confirm that the notification complies with the Plano filming laws before sending the letters.
Community Management in Plano
Plano has been ranked among the top in-demand and best places to live in Texas, and it all comes down to one element: the local community. Granted, the infrastructure, development, economic growth, business opportunities, and other forms of progress are also important factors, but you'll see that the local community sets the standard of warmth and creates a welcoming atmosphere. Plus, the filming regulations in Plano are on your side. You can get a permit without much hassle and enjoy cooperation from the local departments. You only need to look out for disturbance and privacy intrusion, as the locals don't take these lightly.
Conclusion
Plano is perfect for anyone looking for a balance between concrete structures and natural elements. The city has an abundance of both, and they appear in all their beauty and majesty on the cityscape. Iconic landmarks like the Plano Symphony Orchestra and historical treasure troves like the Heritage Farmstead Museum give the city diverse mysteries and wonders that never fail to charm visitors and, obviously, filmmakers. The filming guidelines in Plano are simple, making the city a perfect metropolitan destination for filmmakers, as it has been in the past for the creators of Wishbone, She Gets What She Wants, and numerous other titles. The Plano Arts & Events Department is ready to assist filmmakers. They offer access to public areas, liaise with local departments, provide technical support, and give guidance as needed. Another noteworthy perk of filming in Plano, or anywhere else in Texas, is the filmmaker incentive program offered by the Texas Film Commission. Plano is as good a deal as you’d want in the heart of Texas. And when you’re in town, looking for fine interiors and outdoor venues to film your project, feel free to browse Giggster’s selections of the best filming destinations in the city and nearby. You’ll be amazed; that’s a guarantee!