The Detroit Office of Special Events and Film issues a no-fee general permit for all work being completed in the city of Detroit. To obtain a DFO Permit, the film company must complete a
Location Use Form and submit it to the Film Office
one month prior to filming. The DFO also requires all film companies to provide proof of adequate insurance for all film projects. Insurance requirements can be found in the form section of the DFO website. In addition to DFO requirements, depending on the uniqueness of the project, additional city permits and/or fees may be required. Listed below are DFO answers to frequently asked questions.
1. How can I work with Location Managers from the Film and Television Industries?Answer: The DFO does not provide employment placement services. We do maintain a listing of industry professionals that is often utilized by Locations managers and production companies (See question 2).
2. How can I get my name or company's name listed on the “Industry Professional” page?Answer: Additions are made to the site monthly. Please submit your information to the DFO by fax 313-224-7255 or email
dfo@detroitmi.gov. Once your information has been received, a confirmation email will be sent to you. Your information will then be reviewed, and processed for approval. Upon approval, an email will be sent to you and you, information will be listed on our site.
3. What can the DFO do for me as a film director planning to shoot a film?
Answer: DFO assists industry professionals by facilitating the permitting process and acting as a liaison with city departments for film productions.
4. How long does the permitting process take?Answer: The Permitting process depends on the project type. Typically a permit can be issued within 48-72 hours.
5. I heard there are two types of forms (Location Use Application and Insurance Requirement) that must be filled out and turned in before a shoot takes place. Where do I find those forms and how do I turn them in?Answer: You can find and print both of the forms here on our website (www.detroitmi.gov). Once the forms are completed, forms should be faxed over to 313-224-7255 or emailed to
dfo@detroitmi.gov. Upon reciept, someone from our office will contact you regrading your project.
6. Why do I need to fill out an insurance requirement form?Answer: The insurance forms are needed to protect the City from liability during your shoot.
7. Would I need to fill out an insurance form for a small project (example commercial or a short story)? And if so, are there different price ranges?
Answer: Yes, insurance forms are necssary for all projects. Prices may vary; students and organizations may receive special consideration. Please call our office for more information.
8. If I already have my own insurance to secure my location(s) shoot, can I use it or do I have to buy DFO insurance in order to secure my shoot?Answer: DFO does not provide insurance. You must provide your own insurance.
9. I am a Film Major and I would like to intern for DFO. Who would I speak to and how can I submit an application for review?Answer: Currently, all DFO intern positions are filled. You may however, forward your resume to
dfo@detroitmi.gov for future consideration.
10. I am not from Detroit and would like to visit the city for an up coming project. What are some places DFO recommends for me to visit?Answer: Please visit our website
www.detroitmi.gov and click on the Location and More tab for further information.
HOW CAN I RECEIVE A FILM RESOURCES DIRECTORY AND/OR MICHIGAN PRODUCTION GUIDE?Contact the Michigan Film Office at (800) 477-3456 or
http://www.michigan.gov/filmoffice.
HOW DO YOU CONTACT US?The Detroit Film Office is located in the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, 2 Woodward Avenue, Suite 1126, Detroit, Michigan 48226. The phone number is (313) 224-4422, and the fax number is (313) 628-1915. You can also e-mail us at
dfo@detroitmi.gov