Maple Ridge provides friendly one-stop service for the film industry.
Step One: Engage with Maple Ridge’s Film Coordinator
Maple Ridge has a dedicated Film Coordinator who understands the unique demands of the film industry and what our city has to offer. For a successful filming experience, it's essential to collaborate closely with the Film Coordinator. They can assist with location scouting, permits, and ensure that everything aligns with our city’s regulations. Begin by reviewing our Filming Guidelines and our Filming Policy to familiarize yourself with the necessary steps.
Reach out to the Maple Ridge Economic Development Filming office. This can be done via phone at 604-340-5197 or by emailing dmcgowan@mapleridge.ca.
Production must qualify each location a minimum 10 days prior to filming with the Film Coordinator to ensure there are no conflicts or things of note.
Fill out a Film Production Business License application. Submit a copy of $5 million Commercial General Liability insurance, naming the "City of Maple Ridge" as an additional insured, which includes cross liability coverage.
Step Two: Security Deposit
The Film Coordinator will request a deposit from production that will be drawn down on during reconciliation for all fees and charges and act as a damage deposit for all City services. Production companies must provide the deposit, as per the request of the Film Coordinator. The deposit should be in the form of a cheque made payable to "The City of Maple Ridge". Payment can be left with the reception desk at City Hall's first floor.
Step Three: Film Permit Application
After working with the Film Coordinator, submit the final application online. Ensure you submit your application at least five (5) business days before your filming starts.
The production is required to submit their proposed Resident Letter to the Film Coordinator at least three (3) business days before filming begins. This letter must include detailed information about parking, special effects, the location of filming, and contact information. Approval of the Resident Letter by the Film Coordinator is mandatory before distribution. Once approved, the film company must distribute the letter to residents and businesses within a minimum 2-block radius of the filming activity.
All notices of filming, including the Resident Letter, must be sent to the Film Office for approval before distribution. Use the city-approved template for all Film Notification Letters. Notifications should reach neighbourhoods (residential and commercial) at least three full business days before filming to allow time for feedback.
Step Six: Filming Compliance and On-Site Coordination
During filming, it is essential to have a senior member of the locations team on set at all times. This individual should have a thorough understanding of the City's filming guidelines and the specific scope of your filming permit. They must also have the authority to enforce the permit terms and conditions, ensuring that all aspects of the production adhere to agreed-upon protocols.
Always keep your filming permit and any associated highway use permits readily available in both print and digital formats while on set. These documents are public records and must be presented upon request to verify that your filming activities are authorized.
Depending on the filming location and the scale of the project, the Film Coordinator may assign a city liaison to be present on-site. This liaison is provided to support the production, especially when filming on city property or in sensitive areas known as "hot locations." The presence of a liaison can facilitate smoother interactions with the community and local authorities, ensuring that the production maintains a positive relationship with the public and adheres to city regulations.
Step Seven: Finalizing Your Filming Project
After your film production concludes, please complete and submit the Filming Wrap Form within two weeks by filling it out online.
Upon completion of your filming, we will calculate all related charges and deduct them from your initial deposits. Here’s how the final financial adjustments will be handled:
If the total charges are less than your deposits, the remaining balance will be refunded to you.
If the charges exceed the amount of the deposits, you will receive an invoice for the outstanding balance.
