A Location Agreement is one of the most essential contracts in film production. Any time you film on private property, you need written permission that clearly defines:
- when you can access the property
- where filming is permitted
- how the property may appear on camera
- who is responsible if something goes wrong
This Location Agreement secures the legal right to film the property’s interior, exterior, and surrounding areas, and grants the Producer permission to depict the location accurately or fictionally in the Picture and its promotion.
It also sets expectations around scheduling, cleanup, restoration, damage responsibility, insurance, confidentiality, and re-use — issues that often cause disputes on low-budget sets when they aren’t addressed in writing.
Designed specifically for student, micro-budget, and independent productions, this agreement balances professional protections with practical flexibility, making it suitable for festival submissions, distributor review, and E&O insurance.
If you’re filming anywhere you don’t personally own, this agreement gives your production the legal foundation it needs to move forward safely.
What Filmmakers Commonly Get Wrong About Location Agreements
Many indie filmmakers underestimate how much risk locations carry. These are the issues that cause problems most often:
Assuming verbal permission is enough
A casual “yes” doesn’t protect you from cancellations, disputes, or liability claims.
Using a simple release instead of a full agreement
A Location Agreement covers access, rights, liability, restoration, insurance, and remedies — not just permission.
Failing to define filming areas clearly
Disputes often arise over which rooms, exteriors, or shared spaces are included.
Not addressing damage or restoration in advance
Even minor wear, spills, or scuffs can become contentious without clear terms.
Overlooking confidentiality and social media exposure
Owners posting behind-the-scenes photos can create real distribution and publicity issues.
Not planning for pickups or reshoots
Returning to a location without written permission can derail a project late in post.
This agreement is designed to prevent those problems before they happen.
Why This Agreement Matters
A properly drafted Location Agreement helps protect your production from:
- last-minute shoot cancellations
- unexpected location fees or demands
- property damage disputes
- privacy or trademark complaints
- insurance coverage gaps
- festival or distributor delivery issues
It also reassures property owners that the production is professional, insured, and accountable — which often makes them more willing to say yes. professional relationship and sets clear expectations for everyone involved.
FAQ
A Location Agreement is a contract between a property owner and a production company that grants permission to film on private property under agreed terms.
Yes—anytime you film on private property, even in a friend’s house, it’s best practice to use a signed agreement to avoid disputes.
Yes. This template includes insurance and indemnity clauses to ensure the production is responsible for damage, restoration, or cleanup.
Yes. Most distributors require signed location agreements as part of the chain of title documentation.
Yes. Distributors require written proof of permission for all private property.
Yes. The template includes terms regarding crew conduct and restrictions.
You can include optional additional days or negotiate a separate addendum.
Yes — the template includes optional drone and aerial permissions.
Only if negotiated. This agreement includes an optional credit section.
