Film (Commercial)
For most programs, the Province of British Columbia (the Province) processes applications in 140 days from the acceptance of the application. However an accelerated approval process exists for film projects with approval possible in as little as three days.
British Columbia. is one of the top three film and television production centres in North America, behind only Los Angeles and New York.
Application Documents
The following documents should be reviewed prior to submitting your application:
To accommodate the growing industry, the Commercial Film Tenure Program makes Crown land available for the production of motion pictures and television programs, as well as still photography for commercial, educational and promotional purposes.
Permission to use Crown land is obtained by application to the Province.
Fees and Costs
Required for a commercial film tenure are:
- application fee of $530.00 (includes GST);
- permit fee of $265.00 (includes GST);
- a $5,000 security deposit as outlined in the general commercial policy;
- a minimum of $3 million in liability insurance.
Application and Approval
Companies must be registered in British Columbia to be eligible for commercial film tenures. Even companies already registered outside the province must register in B.C. to obtain a commercial film tenure.
The quick-pace film industry requires a quick approval process. The Province has established a condensed application process, with an efficient environmental impact assessment supported by other agencies of government. Applications may be processed in as little as 3 days.
Either a permit or a license may be granted.
- A Commercial Film Permit is by far the most common form of film tenure. It permits use of Crown land for up to 6 months, where the use is limited to the filming of scenery or backdrops involving no structural improvements, camps or large equipment.
- A License of Occupation is required where a commercial film production calls for substantial improvements, camps, vehicles, large equipment or modifications to the land. A licence is normally issued for 1 year.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to:
- review the Commercial Film Tenure Application Information available at Regional offices; and/or
- review the general application information on the website; and/or
- download the information and application forms from this section of the website.
Applications for both a license of occupation and a commercial film permit must include a film activity letter which:
- generally describes the project;
- gives information on the cast, crew size and accommodation requirements; and
- outlines the nature of any structural improvements and/or proposed modifications to the land, if modifications are intended.
The Province will send this letter to appropriate agencies for comment.
An applicant must also provide proof that a minimum of $3 million in liability insurance has been secured.
The most common reason for delay is submission of an incomplete application, which is then returned to the applicant. To ensure an application is processed as quickly as possible be sure to complete all the required documents identified in the Requirements List/Management Plan  (23kb) and submit the required Application Fee.
To apply for a commercial film tenure, download and print the following documents:
If your application is accepted, you will be notified if Advertising (147kb) is required. Please wait for confirmation before advertising.
If you have questions regarding any aspect of the application process or any of the land tenure programs, contact
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