City Guide Filming in Sag Harbor, NY
Production Permit Fees
- General Filming Permit Fee: $300 Non-Refundable Fee
- Student/Non-Commercial Filming Permit Cost: Free
Minimum Insurance
- General Liability: $1 Million
- Worker’s Compensation: As Per NY Requirements
- Automobile Liability: $1 Million Per Incident
- Watercraft Liability: $1 Million
- Aviation Insurance Coverage: $5 Million
- UAS/Drone Insurance: $2 Million
- Product Liability Insurance: $1 Million
- Liquor Liability Insurance: $1 Million
Additional Permits
- Police & Firefighter Monitoring: The NY Film Office will liaise with the departments
Discounts
About Sag Harbor
The state of New York is one of the most iconic regions of the USA, especially New York City and nearby areas. Sag Harbor may not be the first name that pops to mind when discussing New York in general, but this incorporated village holds an eminent position in the history of the USA. Today, it is a barely populated village with reminders of the olden days when it was a commercial whaling center and the port of entry for the USA. But as time passed, the city became a summer retreat for the affluent, who found its climate, scenic beauty, and people to their liking — this has not changed over the years. Even Hollywood film moguls have sought the village as the site to witness the creation of their masterpieces, such as Masquerade, BreadCrumbs, Lonely Hearts, Money, Sweet Liberty, Last Summer in the Hamptons, 3 Backyards, Shelter Island, and more.
Besides being an ideal filming spot, thanks to the peaceful environment, Sag Harbor also happens to be enriched with some of the rarest, most elusive fauna. This might interest documentary makers who want to capture the sight of endangered animals like the eastern tiger salamander. Numerous nature preserves and wetlands dot the area and house some of the most impressive animals in the area. But even for regular filmmakers, the village offers an attractive deal. In general, the filming laws in Sag Harbor are not so strict, and you’ll find plenty of filming locations suited for your project. Giggster will help you pick from the if you choose the village for your next project!
Do I Need a Filming Permit in Sag Harbor?
Not all filming activity in Sag Harbor requires a permit. However, all film productions that use proper equipment, have a crew and are demanding exclusive access to a particular public space will need to get a filming permit. You can film on private property without a film permit but still need other privileges that a filming permit affords, such as free parking and free on-set police assistance. However, the filming guidelines in Sag Harbor are also explicit about when you can film without a permit. When filming for a vlog or a travel blog video, using handheld cameras, and not demanding exclusive access to public property or free parking or police assistance, then a permit application isn't required. But even in that case, if some amenities are needed, contact the NYC Mayor’s Office Of Media And Entertainment for an optional permit.
Also, using public spaces for filming requires contacting the local management focal persons before you can film in the area. For private properties, you must consult the property owner and get written permission to make your filming schedule official.
Pyrotechnics Permit
this becomes applicable when a film production plans on using explosives and special effects as part of their script
Animal Control Permit
if your production aims to use animals, such as dogs, which must be restrained and controlled, then this permit is needed
Student Filming/Non-Commercial Filming Permit
for students and non-profit organizations looking to film in Sag Harbor, the filming permit will be free of cost
Optional Permit
this only applies in the rare case when someone does not actually need a permit but still chooses to get one for certain reasons; the $300 non-refundable fee which is usually charged for regular permits does not apply here
Permit Management in Sag Harbor
Mayor’s Office Of Media And Entertainment
The NYC Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment, also dubbed as the NYC Film Office, handles the issuance of all filming permits in Sag Harbor. As mentioned earlier, you need a filming permit only when you're using professional-level equipment for filming, have a production crew, and require exclusive access to a public space – but not all of these have to apply for you to be obliged to apply for a filming permit. Just reach out to the Film Office to be sure about your status. Also, getting a filming permit gives you access to free parking and free police service on the set, both of which are arranged by the Film Office directly, so you don't have to reach out to the departments of transport and police individually for that.
You can apply for an optional permit without any non-refundable fee if you need authorization, even if you are not legally obliged to get one. If you plan on shooting your film project on private property, you'll need to get a permission letter signed by the property owner first. The same goes for filming in parks and nature preserves — get permission from the management body, and then you can film there. But of course, all public places and nature preserves have a set of rules that you must abide by. In case of any confusion, hop onto a computer and log into the Film Office website for all the self-help resources you need.
What Insurance Do I Need in Sag Harbor?
All productions need insurance coverage if the project applied for a regular filming permit — no insurance coverage is necessary for optional permit applicants. Production insurance requirements safeguard the crew members and any passerby if something goes wrong. Even if your script does not pose a risk to those involved, accidents can result from the most insignificant things, such as a slip and fall. As the producer, you'll be solely responsible for any liability claims resulting from your filming activities (during that period).
You are also required to name the Sag Harbor and its representatives as additionally insured for any liability claims filed as a consequence of your filming activities. Plus, shooting inside public buildings or on public property may necessitate extra permission from the local management, and you may have to present additional insurance documentation depending on how you plan to use the area. For instance, if you incorporate pyrotechnics in your film, the insurance requirements will increase.
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 Sag Harbor?
You’ve pretty much covered most of the Sag Harbor filming laws that concern you, and you can always reach out to the NYC Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment for additional information and crucial resources for your reference. But as for the variety of locations available for your filming project, Sag Harbor offers some of the most iconic and premium filming locations with a touch of indoor and outdoor areas. The Modern Sag Harbor Home is one of the many modernistic properties with ample lighting, a spacious interior, and premium furnishing, perfect for filming! In contrast, the Hamptons Shingled Traditional Home offers a classic feel and sophisticated furniture, making it quite the opposite of the first option but just as impressive. You can also try the House with Fresh Pond Seclusion if ultra-level luxury is your thing, bathed in the sun, amply lit, and finely furnished.
In contrast, the Home at Cherry Lane is more down-to-earth with features that still stand out as impressive but not as expensive as some of the options discussed earlier; however, the lush green lawn and stellar interior still make it a remarkable place for shooting your next film project. But what if you needed a time machine to travel back to the mid-century? Instead, try out the Stylish Mid-Century Home, which delivers the vibes and ambiance most accurately. The property is flooded with sunlight and boasts a remarkable interior, making it a fine choice for any connoisseur of classic architecture. The same can be said for the Stunning Sag Harbor Beach Cottage, which delivers a mix of luxury with artistic simplicity, making it one of the most prominent options.
You can also set sail and film your next project with the deep blue sea (no pun intended) in the background. Options like the 64' Galeon 2022 Yacht, 43' Azimut, 36' Aquila 2021 Catamaran, 50' Azimut Atlantis, and 43' Pardo 2021 are all impressive. All these water vessels feature fully furnished interiors and are available for production crews of various sizes. Not to mention the thrill of setting sales these water vessels provide, coupled with the majestic beauty of the sea itself. Outdoor filming just got redefined — thanks to Sag Harbor!
Special Requirements in Sag Harbor
Filming In The Sag Harbor Union Free School District
The Sag Harbor Union Free School District allows filming on the school premises, but you'll first have to reach out to the school administration for permission. Submit your filming application at least a month before your filming schedule alongside documented evidence of insurance coverage for $1,000,000 general liability. Once you get your approval from the school administration, reach out to the Film Office to further the permit issuance process. When you get the permit, you'll be free to shoot on the school premises.
Filming In Parks
You can get free access to outdoor public spaces and parks, such as the Sag Harbor Marine Park, with a film permit in Sage Harbor. But before you can get a permit for filming in a park, you’ll first have to reach out to the park manager and provide detailed information about your filming schedule and the expected activities that will be part of this film production. Only after you get approval for all of this from the park manager can you reach out to the Film Office for a permit.
Filming in Havens Beach
Havens Beach is a public coastal beach in Sag Harbor; it is not too big but hosts iconic scenery, allows bay swimming and boating, and even has a playground for kids. Film production activities are allowed, but once again, you'll first have to reach out to the beach management and seek their permission. Mention your schedule and the anticipated activities in detail when you submit your application; when you get the permission of the beach management, you can move ahead with the rest of the procedure as usual.
Filming In Nature Preserves
The “Long Pond Greenbelt” is a series of ponds to the south of the city which host a rich variety of flora and fauna. Besides these ponds, Sag Harbor also hosts Cilli Farm (converted into a preserve), Millers Ground Preserve, Barcelona Neck Preserve, and Sag Harbor Woods Preserve. Some of the most elusive and rare creatures, such as the eastern tiger salamander, are found occurring naturally in these areas. Documentary makers and biologists may want access to these grounds for filming; however, first of all, getting in touch with the preserve management is a must. You’ll have to comply with their rules regarding the use of these grounds for filming and might also be required to hire monitoring services before you can film. Once you’ve received the permission, you can reach out to the Film Office for an official filming permit and start your film production here.
What Does it Cost to Film in Sag Harbor?
Compared to many other cities that open their doors to filmmakers, Sag Harbor offers the most favorable terms, especially in terms of filming fees and costs. Many of the privileges that you need to buy in other cities will be available to you free of cost. The filming laws in Sag Harbor are overall much more lenient than in many other areas of the USA.
Additional Fees
The costs are overall very affordable, and it would make no sense for you not to invest $300 for a permit and get all these privileges for free. Remember, filming without the necessary permits can result in punitive action against you and may even disrupt your production activities. It is best to follow the rules to avoid any trouble.
Geographical Jurisdiction of Sag Harbor?
Sag Harbor is not a major metropolis, but instead, a small village that covers an area of 2.3 square miles in total, with 0.54 square miles of it being water. The village lies partly in both South Hampton and East Hampton (three-fifths and two-fifths respectively). The nearest big city is New York City which is about 92 miles away. Filming in NYC The NYC Film Office manages all filming operations in the city as it does in Sag Harbor. However, apart from all the details shared so far, there is one extra consideration for any crew headed towards New York City. On top of the $300 permit fee, you will also be required to pay $3,200 to the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) for access to certain city buildings for film production, such as Borough Halls, Courts, and Municipal Buildings. You’ll also need a separate permit from the DCAS for access to these sites.
Outreach in Sag Harbor
You’ll need to properly notify all the affected residents and businesses, at least two days in advance, about any filming activity that might affect them. The filming laws in Sag Harbor dictate that your notification letter mentions all the relevant details, including the filming schedule, the extent to which it will affect the people, contact information for complaints, and so on.
Community Management in Sag Harbor
The people of Sag Harbor love the peace and tranquility of their area, so any disturbance and excessive noise will not register well with the locals. That being said, the people are warm and welcoming, and if you follow through with all the filming regulations in Sag Harbor, they won't have much to complain about. Sag Harbor is a summertime retreat for affluent people, so the locals are used to having visitors over, and the same is also true for film crews.
Conclusion
Peace and tranquility are best-suited words to describe Sag Harbor and its community. The village offers a rare glimpse into the days when the USA was still in its infancy, and its many connections with nature and natural environments make it all the more likable for any visitor. Filmmakers and production crews are especially welcome since the filming guidelines in Sag Harbor are not hard to follow. Instead, the NYC administration facilitates all filmmakers making their way here with relaxed laws and regulations.
Sag Harbor hosts several premium-grade filming locations for you to choose from, and the public spaces are equally impressive. The atmosphere, the friendliness of the locals, and the sense of thrill brought by the nearby coast are all factors that add to the allure and charm of the city. But most of all, the uniqueness and peace make it perfect for any film production. For a single non-refundable payment of $300, you can get a filming permit from the NYC Film Office without paying extra for police assistance, access to outdoor public spaces, and parking privileges.
And it’s not like you’re experimenting — Sag Harbor has long seen cinematic masterpieces being put together here that made a huge impact when released. Also, as noted earlier, the village is a popular summer retreat for the wealthy, leaving no doubt about the power of its allure and charm. All in all, the incorporated village offers the package. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about picking the finest filming locations in Sag Harbor because Giggster will set you up with the most in-demand locations.