Filming

Milton is a popular location for commercial filming and photography due to its proximity to Toronto and diverse settings. The Town welcomes film crews and works with applicants to support productions while minimizing disruption to residents and businesses. 

If you plan to film in Milton, you must apply for a filming permit and follow all applicable guidelines and by-laws. 

This page outlines what you need to apply, how the process works, the fees involved, and the requirements based on your filming location. 

Who this is for 

This licence is for: 

  • Film production companies planning to film in Milton 

  • Commercial photographers and videographers 

  • Individuals or organizations conducting filming activities in public or private spaces 

What you need 

Before you apply, make sure your application includes: 

  • Liability insurance information 

  • Details on the impact of filming on residents and businesses 

  • A plan for traffic control or disruption (if applicable) 

  • The number of production vehicles, cast, and crew 

  • Details on any stunts or special effects 

For full requirements, review the filming policy. 

Fees and security deposits 

A filming permit costs $830. 

You must pay this fee when you pick up your filming permit after approval. 

Security deposits 

Additional costs, such as security deposits, may apply depending on your filming location and the scope of your production. 

A security deposit is required in the form of a letter of credit or an approved alternative. The deposit will not be returned until the site has passed inspection and all costs have been paid in full, including any damage, staff time, or rental fees. 

Security deposits vary depending on the type of location: 

  • $5,000 – Town of Milton facilities 

  • $2,000 – Town parks 

  • $2,000 – Town roads 

Application timelines and general requirements 

To help ensure your application is processed on time, submit your request in advance based on your filming location. 

  • Town facilities: at least 7 days before filming 

  • Town roads: at least 5 days before filming 

Applying early is recommended, as approvals may take longer depending on the scope of your production.
 

Filming requirements (general) 

The following requirements may apply depending on your filming setup: 

  • You may need to notify residents or businesses affected by filming 

  • You may need to prepare a filming plan that includes locations, timing, and production details 

  • Larger productions may require traffic control measures or additional approvals 

Filming requirements by location 

Filming requirements vary depending on where you plan to film. Expand the sections below to review the requirements that apply to your location. 

If you are filming at a Town facility, submit your application at least 7 days before filming begins. 

Provide the following with your application: 

  • Proposed filming dates and times, including setup and clean-up 

  • Name and phone number of an on-site contact 

  • A general outline of the filming, including vehicles, cast, crew, stunts, or special effects 

  • Filming locations and any proposed modifications to Town property 

If your application is approved: 

  • You may need to notify affected residents or businesses 

  • A Location Agreement will be prepared and must be signed 

If you are filming on Town roads, submit your application at least 5 days before filming begins. 

Additional requirements may apply depending on your filming activities. 

You must collect signatures from 80 per cent of affected residents if your filming: 

  • Occurs on residential roads more than once per year 

  • Takes place before 7 a.m. or after 11 p.m., or on Sundays or statutory holidays 

  • Requires overnight parking for production vehicles 

  • Includes lighting or generators directed toward nearby homes 

  • Requires a road closure 

Other conditions: 

  • Up to 15 production vehicles may receive parking access near the filming location 

  • You must follow the Town’s Uniform Traffic Control By-law 

  • Police officers may be required for traffic control, depending on the scope of filming 

A filming permit is not required for filming on private property. 

If the Town is notified of filming activity, you may need to inform nearby residents of your plans. 

Special effects and high-risk activities 

If your production includes explosives, fire, or pyrotechnics, you must obtain a letter from the Fire Chief as part of your permit. 

Contact the Fire Department to request this letter before your permit is issued. 

How to apply 

  1. Submit your completed application: 

  • By mail or in person at Development Services, 150 Mary St., Milton, ON L9T 6Z5 

  1. Wait for review and approval. 

After you apply 

After you submit your application, Town staff will review your proposal and supporting information. You may be contacted for additional details or clarification. Once approved, you will be notified to complete payment and pick up your permit.  

Your permit is not valid until approval and payment are complete.

Contact Engineering and Infrastructure