Adopted Rules Governing Filming and Photography in DCAS Properties

The Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) and its predecessor City agencies have for more than twenty years allowed and supported film production activities on properties and within facilities under the jurisdiction of the agency. Given the frequency and complexity of filming, it has become necessary to codify the process that has been followed over time.

DCAS has adopted rules that govern filming and photography conducted on properties and within facilities under its jurisdiction, which require permits from the Mayor's Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting (MOFTB). These properties and facilities include various City buildings, such as David N. Dinkins Municipal Building and Brooklyn Municipal Building, all Borough Halls, and City and State Courts.
To conduct film or photography shoots in DCAS properties and facilities, DCAS approval is required prior to obtaining a permit from MOFTB. Forms and documents required for DCAS review and approval must be submitted to the DCAS Special Events no later than four business days prior to the date on which prepping or rigging for shoots is set to commence.

Upon approval, a non-refundable fee of $3,200.00 shall accompany any application submitted to MOFTB for a required permit for filming or photography in DCAS properties and facilities. The fee shall be in the form of a certified bank check or money order, payable to the New York City Department of Finance.

The required fee shall be imposed for each instance in which prepping or rigging commences, is followed by shooting and/or photography for such production, and then is concluded by wrapping, de-rigging, and/or related activities.


These rules were in effect as of December 23, 2009. You can download a complete copy of the Adopted Rules.

List of DCAS Managed Buildings.