Sanford, FL Filming & Production: Street Closures (2026)

The Sanford Motion Photography Permit Ordinance requires a production permit from the film commissioner before anyone may advertise, engage in, or start a motion photography production in the City of Sanford, including shoots on private property that use city equipment or facilities. Applications go through the film commissioner, who acts as agent for the production company, and must be filed not more than 180 days and not less than five working days before filming begins; temporary permits can be issued on 24-hour notice with the city manager's approval.

Item (6) of the required application content specifically calls for the 'necessity for closures of public streets or sidewalks and for what duration,' meaning a production cannot block a Sanford street or sidewalk without stating that need up front. Applicants also must disclose the number of vehicles, equipment and personnel on location, proposed use of city equipment, and carry at least $1,000,000 in general liability coverage naming the city as additional insured (rising to $5,000,000 for pyrotechnics or explosives). The city may recover its direct extraordinary costs, including personnel and equipment committed to support closures, and can require prepayment of estimated costs before issuing the permit. Once a permit issues, no other city permits are required for activities that are part of the production.