How to Set Up a Film Permit Account in NYC (Step-by-Step)
So you’re ready to produce your shoot in New York City — but then you hit a very real wall:
“I can’t pull a permit because I don’t have an account with the Mayor’s Office.”
The good news? Setting up an account with the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment (MOFTB) is easier than it looks — as long as you follow the steps and submit the right documents.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get set up (and stop emailing your friend’s cousin who might have an account).
Step 1: Know Who Needs a MOFTB Account
If your shoot in NYC involves crew, equipment, vehicles, street activity, or public property, you’ll need a permit — and that starts with registering for an account through the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment (MOFTB).
Step 2: Gather What You’ll Need
Before you begin the application, have these ready:
Your official production company name (LLC, Corp, or DBA)
Company address and phone number
A Certificate of Insurance (COI) with the required legal language
Step 3: Prepare Your Certificate of Insurance (COI)
This is the #1 reason new accounts get delayed — make sure to get it right.
At least 48 business hours before submitting your application, have your insurance broker send your COI to: insurance@media.nyc.gov
Your COI must include the following:
Additional Insured:
“The City of New York, including its officials and employees”
Certificate Holder:
NYC Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment
1697 Broadway, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10019
Minimum coverage:
$1M per occurrence / $2M aggregate general liability
Auto and workers’ comp coverage (if applicable)
Here is a Link to full MOFTB Insurance Requirements
Step 4: Create Your Account Online
Once your documents are ready, head over to the MOFTB website. Go to the Online Application and click “Create Account.”
You’ll be prompted to enter your production and company information.
This step officially gets the ball rolling.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
MOFTB typically approves accounts within 1–3 business days.
Once approved, you’ll receive login credentials for the Film Permit Application System. From there, you’ll be able to:
Log into the system
Start applying for permits
Step 6: Submit Your First Permit
With your account live, you can now:
Add projects
Submit and print permits
Each permit request will still need individual review and approval, but your account unlocks the full process.
Final Word: Get Legit, Get Rolling
You can't pull permits without an account — and you can’t film legally in NYC without permits.
Set yourself up now, and save time when the cameras are ready to roll and your client’s expecting a fully permitted, professional shoot.
Need Help?
White Wall Locations offers full-service permitting. We’ll deal with The Mayors Office. You get the shot.
