Permits & Filming Guidelines

Start with a Plan.
We’ll Help You Navigate.

Filming in the Erie region is generally straightforward — most locations do not require formal film permits, especially for small crews or productions on private property with owner permission.

However, there are exceptions, and it’s important to confirm permissions before cameras roll.

Presque Isle State Park (Required Permitting)

Filming at Presque Isle State Park or any Pennsylvania state park is managed by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) — and permits are sometimes required.

You likely don’t need a permit if your shoot:

Involves 8 or fewer people
Uses only hand-carried gear
Doesn’t require exclusive use of a site
Won’t impact park resources or visitors

A permit is required if your shoot:

Uses large equipment
Needs exclusive access
Affects park operations or the environment
Involves commercial or large-scale production

Film Erie does not issue permits, but we’re happy to connect you to the right place.

Let's Roll

Other Locations

For most other outdoor or privately owned spaces in Erie County and Northwest PA:

City or county permits are rarely required for small, non-disruptive shoots
Permission from the property owner or manager is still essential
Productions involving traffic control, large equipment, or pyrotechnics may trigger additional review

Film Erie does not issue permits, but we can help you determine:

Who owns or manages a location
If local permission is needed
How to get connected to the right contact

Erie Insurance’s 100th Anniversary Commercial Campaign: A Century of Progress
📸 Photo by: RFrank Media

Best Practices for Filming in NWPA

Even when permits aren’t required, we encourage all filmmakers and filmworkers to:

Be transparent with neighbors and property owners
Keep a minimal footprint and clean up after filming
Respect environmental and public use spaces
Have insurance coverage for gear and crew

🎬 Respect the space. Represent the craft. Keep doors open for future productions.

We’re Here to Point You in the Right Direction

Film Erie is building a network of local contacts and production-aware communities. If you’re not sure whether your location needs approval, we’ll do our best to connect you with the right people.