9 Benefits to Using the Detroit Film Commission as a Top Resource

The Detroit Film Commission or the Detroit Film Office is responsible for issuing permits and working with area filmmakers to ensure productions are safe, secure and effective throughout the city.

Working closely with the Michigan Film & Digital Media Office, the Detroit Film Office seeks to make Detroit a thriving community for filmmakers and digital artists.

Access to a vast network of professionals that are engaged with the Detroit film scene is just one of the many benefits that come from using the Detroit Film Commission as your top resource while filming in the city.

We’ve listed several other valuable benefits to working with the Detroit Film Commission below:

1. A Liaison Between Filmmakers & Local Departments

Working with the Detroit Film Commission creates a direct connection between you, the filmmaker, and the local departments that are responsible for keeping order and safety within the city.

The Film Commission is the liaison between you and the police department, fire department, and local health departments.

2. Easy Film Permitting

Filming in Detroit will require a permit for most types of media production. Fortunately, the Detroit Film Commission makes applications for film permits simple and easy to receive. Simply apply online for your permit.

3. Insurance & Other Needs

Working with the local film commission will give you access to information regarding insurance and other requirements that come along with filming in the city of Detroit.

Simply communicate any questions you have about filming in Detroit with the commission and you’ll have the answers that you need.

4. Access to Local Film Crews

Need help securing the crew for your set? The Detroit Film Commission connects you with local crew resources and members that are seeking work.

From a single man camera crew to a full-scale operation, the Film Commission aims to help you network with the appropriate crew members for your job.

5. Accommodations Planning

If you’re in need of accommodations for your crew while filming in Detroit, the Detroit Film Commission can help you out.

They’ll assist in the booking of local accommodations and can tell you where the best rentals are for large and small crews that are coming for a short, or long, stay.

6. Equipment Rentals

Need to rent or purchase equipment for your production?

The Detroit Film Commission works with area rental companies and networks with local filmmakers and studios to provide filmmakers with access to the equipment they need to fulfill their productions. 

7. Access to Office Space

The Detroit Film Commission connects filmmakers with access to office space and other clerical needs while in town.

Whether you need a temporary trailer or large sized office in Detroit metro, the film commission can help you secure locations in buildings that are suitable to your needs.

8. Access to Local Film Organizations

In addition to the networking with area departments and local filmmakers, the Detroit Film Commission also connects you to local film organizations that can assist with your Michigan film production needs.

You’ll have access to the Michigan Film Office, nearby Oakland County Film and Film Macomb.

9. Tax Incentives

Did the idea of filmmaking in Detroit come to mind due to the number of tax incentives that were mentioned?

If you’ve got questions about area tax incentives for filmmakers the Detroit Film Commission can help you determine the incentives that apply to your production and next steps to gaining access.