Hours for filming, move-ins, move-outs and related activities are:

• 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday
• 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. on Sundays and Holidays 

If loud noises are expected during filming, a noise exemption request must be submitted to The City of Calgary’s 311 department and approved by Bylaw Services for filming in both residential and non-residential areas between the hours of 10 p.m. - 7 a.m. The assigned Bylaw officer will advise the applicant on what type of notification to the public is necessary.

Although a noise exemption request must be made for filming activities in commercial, industrial and the non-residential areas of the downtown core, Bylaw Services will have increased flexibility in their approvals for these areas. All requests are subject to the conditions outlined in the Use of Special Effects, Weapons, Explosives, Stunts, Loud Noises or Helicopters.

The City of Calgary is prepared to close streets, alleys, lanes or sidewalks to allow for actual filming. As "No Parking" signs must be posted 24 hours in advance of the filming, the following information is required by the Film, Television & Creative Industries office five (5) working days before filming:

• The streets where the filming is to take place (attach map);
• Number of traffic lanes to be closed;
• Existing regulations on the street such as parking/no parking zones, meters, rush-hour limits, handicapped parking, etc.;
• How access will be maintained to adjacent businesses/residential areas;
• Detailed description of the filming to be done; and,
• Date and times of the filming.

Streets in the downtown core (Bow River to 12 Ave. South and 6 St. East to 11 St. West) will not be closed during the normal business day unless:

• Adequate alternate routes are available as determined by Traffic Engineering personnel;
• Adequate access is assured to adjacent businesses/residential areas as determined by Traffic Engineering personnel;
• Public transit can be maintained on the portion of the street to be closed or on adjacent streets as determined by Calgary Transit personnel; or,
• Major streets will not be closed during the high volume traffic periods. Lane closures will be considered if the impact to the public is within reason and congestion can be mitigated by issuing a public service announcement regarding the affected area prior to the event.

Calgary Police Service officers may be required to undertake traffic control duties for any on-street filming that will affect or interfere with traffic. Traffic Engineering will determine if police assistance is required prior to issuing permits. All costs associated with the hiring of pay duty officers will be paid for by the applicant.

The City of Calgary Roads - Permits area will set the conditions on Street Use Permits for street, alley, and sidewalk closures. Failure to adhere to, or exceed the permit conditions, will result in the permit being revoked and all work suspended for the remaining portion of that project.

NOTE: The applicant must sign the front page of the permit, at the bottom left corner where is says "Applicant's Signature" and sign/initial the bottom of the second page entitled "Street Use Permit Conditions" and return it to Traffic Engineering before the document is considered to be valid.

The City of Calgary owns many facilities that are generally available to the film industry. These include the Municipal Building (excluding Council Chambers), City Hall complex, parks, pathways, recreation facilities, landfill sites and warehouses. An application for permission to film in these locations must be submitted to and coordinated by the Film, Television & Creative Industries office.

The City Clerk's Office must provide approval for any film inquiries involving the Municipal Building Atrium, Municipal Plaza and Historic City Hall.

Use of Calgary Transit facilities require the approval of the Calgary Transit Director or designate.

Your request should be in writing at least five (5) days in advance and provide as much of the following information as possible.

• The building, park or facility and the specific locations which you plan to use including any space needed for equipment, etc.;
• The exact nature of the filming to be done;
• The date and time required including site set up and clean up;
• Why this location is requested;
• The number of crew, cast, support vehicles and equipment being used;
• The names of cast members that may attract many onlookers;
• The script for the scene(s) to be shot;
• Any special effects, stunts or loud noises;
• Any special technical needs, e.g., utilities, parking, security, moving existing furniture, wall decorations, etc.; and,
• Notice of any controversial scene(s) such as nudity, violence, etc.

Production companies must remember that The City requires these facilities to serve Calgarians on an ongoing basis; therefore filming may be limited and will not be permitted if it severely impacts The City's ability to function. Filming in certain locations may not be allowed and facilities may have specific conditions for filming. Previously booked events will take precedence.

Fees and security deposits will be negotiated in conjunction with The City department responsible for the facility, the Film, Television & Creative Industries office and the Location Manager. If access to buildings or grounds is granted, all associated costs including service staff and City security will be charged to the film company.

A walk through inspection facilitated by a representative of the Film, Television & Creative Industries office in conjunction with the Location Manager for the production and a Corporate Properties & Buildings representative will take place before and after filming to assess any damages incurred.

The City will attempt to provide street parking space for essential film unit vehicles. As The City must post "No Parking" signs 24 hours before the effective date of the permit, the Film, Television & Creative Industries office must be provided with the following information five (5) working days in advance of the required signing:

• The streets to be reserved for parking vehicles (attach map);
• Existing regulations on the street such as parking or no parking zones, meters, rush hour limits, handicapped parking, etc.;
• Detailed description of the filming to be done; and,
• Date and time the signage is required.

To apply for a parking permit, visit the Permits & Application section.

Permitted streets will be reserved overnight if the permit allows for shooting on consecutive days.

This parking is not for cast and/or crew personal vehicles. Arrangements must be made for off-street parking and/or shuttle vans/buses should be used.

All film production vehicles must display a valid parking permit in the windshield of each parked vehicle. Vehicles not displaying a valid permit may receive parking tickets. Film crews are not allowed to park vehicles in front of fire hydrants, driveways, within five metres of other areas as deemed by The City of Calgary, Traffic Engineering. Vehicles may be ticketed and towed in these cases.

Hooding parking meters

It is the Traffic Operations Division's responsibility to install and remove the hoods from any parking meters used for film parking. Note: Calgary Parking Authority's new ParkPlus System is now in effect in areas throughout the downtown core. Therefore, reserving street space requires the placement of "No Parking" signs as indicated above.

Towing illegally parked vehicles

If it is necessary to tow a vehicle that is parked in a signed area, the Location Manager must call the Calgary Parking Authority Enforcement Section at (403) 537-7100. It is illegal for the production company to request a towing company to move a vehicle; this is the responsibility of the Calgary Parking Authority.

Authority to fly lower than 1,000 feet above ground level is delegated to the Regional Director, Aviation Regulations, Transport Canada (Edmonton).

Obtaining Transport Canada approval for helicopters, hot air balloons, ultra light or low-flying aircraft is the responsibility of the helicopter or charter aircraft company hired by the film production company. They will require a letter from The City of Calgary (Roads) stating that it has or does not have objections to these flights. This letter will be prepared by The City of Calgary - Traffic Safety Department and will be sent directly to Transport Canada. Aviation liability insurance is required in the amount of $10 million with The City of Calgary named as an additional insured.

In addition, City permission is required if an aircraft is to land and/or takeoff from a City-owned property, e.g. street, building, parking lot, or any of the sixteen park launch sites. This permission must be obtained from The City of Calgary (Roads) through the Film, Television & Creative Industries office.

There are two exceptions to this requirement:

• Landings and takeoffs at Calgary International Airport - allowed 24 hours a day - certain restrictions apply.
• Landings and takeoffs at the Downtown Heliport - allowed only during daylight hours using visual flight. Permission must be obtained from The City of Calgary (Roads) as required by Transport Canada.

Note: Permission is required prior to using the Downtown Heliport. Contact the City of Calgary at 311 a minimum of one full working day in advance of the landing.

The Film, Television & Creative Industries office must be notified at least five (5) working days in advance of any scenes requiring special effects, stunts, loud noises, visible weapons (whether being fired or not), and helicopters or low-flying aircraft. Verbal and written notification to residents and businesses must also make reference to these activities. The City of Calgary reserves the right to have production companies survey affected residents before permits are issued in these cases.

The presence of the Calgary Police Service and/or Fire Department staff is usually required during this type of filming and will be coordinated by the Film, Television & Creative Industries office. Please review the EMS, Fire and Police Assistance guidelines.

Community Standards Bylaw

The City has enacted a Community Standards Bylaw setting out permitted sound levels measured at the point of reception for continuous sounds. The Community Standards Bylaw is available to view as a PDF document.

These levels are:

Notes:

1. "Continuous Sound" means any Sound Level that occurs:

   1. For a continuous duration of more than 3 minutes; or

   2. Sporadically for a total of more than 3 minutes, in any continuous 15 minute time period.

2. "Daytime" means the period:

   1. Beginning at 7 a.m. sounds, as well as daytime hours and ending at 10 p.m. of the same day on weekdays; and,

   2. Beginning at 9 a.m. and ending at 10 p.m. of the same day on a weekend.

3. "Night-time" means the period beginning at 10 p.m. and ending the following day at:

   1. 7 a.m. if the following day is a weekday; or

   2. 9 a.m. if the following day is a weekend.

Sounds that exceed these levels may be temporarily exempted by permit from the Chief Bylaw Enforcement Officer. There is no cost for this permit. Applications for the permit may be made through the Film, Television & Creative Industries office.

An information letter must be delivered to those residents and businesses directly impacted by the closure of a street, alley or sidewalk, including road detours, or being subjected to the lights and/or noise of the film crew on set. A letter must also be delivered if the on-street parking is affected by film production vehicle parking.

A copy of the written notification must also be submitted to the Film, Television & Creative Industries office who will subsequently provide a copy to The City's operations centre (311), the Aldermanic office for the applicable wards, Bylaw Services, Community Associations and Business Revitalization Zones where applicable.

The production company will place a sign(s) on the sidewalk in the area advising public that filming is taking place. Filming involving loud special effects, gunfire, etc. requires a larger notification area within the general vicinity.

The information letter should be printed on the Behind The Scenes template along with company letterhead and include:

• The title of the production, contact information for the production office and brief details on the project;
• The dates and times crews will be working in the area with a description of what the crew will be doing;
• Where production vehicles are permitted to park, including any closures, detours or after hours filming that may affect the area;
• The name and phone number of the Location Manager and the Assistant Location Manager (primary contact);
• The phone number of the Logistics Coordinator - Film, Television & Creative Industries (403) 221-7829 (secondary contact); and,
• The template should also encourage the public to contact 311 to receive after hours (24/7) service.

Behind The Scenes templates:
Colour Template
Black and White Template

The production company should ensure its staff acts in a safe and professional manner. This includes refraining from trespassing, littering, lewd or improper language or dress.

Care should be taken that vehicle and generator exhausts and spillover lighting do not negatively affect residents and businesses. The safety of the public and enjoyment of their property should not be jeopardized.

Personnel from Calgary’s Emergency Medical Services, Fire Department and Police Services are required at certain times during filming. Please note: Fees may be applicable. Visit the Fees section to view all EMS/Fire/Police rates, and contact the Sector Specialist with any questions.

All inquiries regarding Emergency Medical Services (EMS) participation must be made through the Logistics Coordinator a minimum of five (5) working days in advance. Short notice requests will be considered on an individual basis by the Superintendent of Operational Administration (EMS) and every effort will be made to accommodate filming companies.

Requests for assistance should be in writing and include the following information:

• Number of paramedic units required;
• Number of paramedics required;
• Special equipment requested;
• Date, time and estimated duration of filming;
• Technical advisors requested for medical scripts.

Any special considerations for filming, such as protective gear needed or special skills that may be required should also be outlined.

EMS can provide standby units/paramedics to the film company during potentially dangerous situations. Multiple day assignment rates are negotiable.

Personnel from Calgary’s Emergency Medical Services, Fire Department and Police Services are required at certain times during filming. Please note: Fees may be applicable. Visit the Fees section to view all EMS/Fire/Police rates, and contact the Sector Specialist with any questions.

The permission of the Fire Chief is required if a film production company wishes to film Fire personnel, vehicles, equipment, buildings, uniforms, etc. The request must be made in writing to the Calgary Fire Department. All pertinent details of the script involving the Fire Department, as well as a brief outline of the film, is required a minimum of ten (10) working days prior to their use.

The Calgary Fire Department is recognized as an industry leader and has established an impeccable reputation. Any film content that tarnishes the Fire service or the reputation of The City of Calgary Fire Department will not be supported and the use of Fire personnel, vehicles, equipment and uniforms will not be allowed. Contact the Sector Specialist with any questions.

If a production company requires the Fire Department to be present on an assigned basis, the request must be made through the Film, Television & Creative Industries office at least ten (10) days in advance. Contact the Sector Specialist with any questions.

If the use of a fire hydrant is required, contact the Film, Television & Creative Industries office at least two (2) working days in advance. Water Services will inspect the fire hydrant and the film production company's staff will be trained on its use. After completion of filming, Water Services will re-inspect the hydrant. If the hydrant is damaged, Water Services will repair the hydrant and bill the film company for costs incurred.

If a Fire emergency occurs, the Fire Department's use of the fire hydrant shall supersede any other use of the hydrant. The Fire Department must be provided with unobstructed access to the fire hydrant for the duration of the emergency.

Personnel from Calgary’s Emergency Medical Services, Fire Department and Police Services are required at certain times during filming. Please note: Fees may be applicable. Visit the Fees section to view all EMS/Fire/Police rates, and contact the Sector Specialist with any questions.

Three (3) weeks prior to filming, the Fire Marshal's Office requires a faxed credential outline of the "Blaster" in charge of the explosives and details of their experience, and the credentials and experiences of the Pyrotechnician in charge of all pyro-effects. All credentials will be reviewed by a Safety Codes Officer (Fire Discipline), and if required, the Senior Inspector of the Explosives Branch of Canada in Ottawa will be contacted for verification of qualifications. The Fire Marshal's Office has the right of refusal of any Blaster or Pyrotechnician not holding valid certifications.

Requests for permits for the following must be made in writing to the Sector Specialist ten (10) working days in advance:

• The transport of any explosives and/or fireworks;
• The use of any explosives;
• The use of any fireworks;
• The use of any pyrotechnics; or,
• The burning of any buildings or vehicles, etc.

Permits may be obtained from the City of Calgary Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau or through the Sector Specialist.

The following information must be provided ten (10) working days prior to any explosive, pyrotechnic effect or burning permit being issued:

• A complete "story board" on what effect is to be done;
• A complete description of the device, materials, etc. being used to create the special effect;
• "Exact" amount of explosives to be used and the types of explosives to be used. Types will include who the manufacturer is and the color coding (i.e. "det. cords");
• The type of delays to be used;
• How the effect is to be fired, electrically or remotely, or manually;
• The Blaster in charge must be the same person previously approved;
• The Pyrotechnician in charge must be the same person previously approved;
• The exact location including distances from any and all buildings;
• Proof of insurance in the amount of $5,000,000 (five million dolars); and,
• The safety precautions and apparatus used to protect the public, cast and crew.

Information provided for the permit may be faxed to the Calgary Police Service Tactical Unit and any effect that is unknown to both the Fire Prevention Bureau and Police Tactical Unit may be required to have a pre-test to determine its explosives limits. The use of any black powders, "Det. Cords", pyro-pak pyrotechnics or any other high explosives will require the attendance of an assigned Safety Codes Officer (Fire Discipline) and may require a member of the Calgary Police Service Tactical Unit to examine and/or offer advice regarding the explosive.

Once an inspection of the site and the special effect to be used has been completed, the assigned Safety Codes Officer (Fire Discipline) shall sign the appropriate permit for that effect. The effect shall not be used until the permit is signed and the effect approved.

Any special effect not using high explosives, i.e. propane cannon, gasoline, etc. will require the attendance of an assigned Safety Codes Officer (Fire Discipline).

The Safety Codes Officer (Fire Discipline) may stop the effect at any time if the public, cast, crew, etc. is in danger from the effect.

A magazine, the manner in which the explosives shall be stored therein and the conditions under which explosives may be stored, shall be governed by and subject to the provisions of the Explosives Act (Canada) and the regulations made thereunder. The transportation of explosives shall be governed by and subject to the provisions of the Explosives Act (Canada) and the regulations thereunder.

For more information, contact Fire Prevention Bureau

• Telephone: (403) 287-4250 from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday to Friday and from 8:00 a.m to 4:00 p.m., Saturday and Sunday
• Fax: (403) 243-9947

Personnel from Calgary’s Emergency Medical Services, Fire Department and Police Services are required at certain times during filming. Please note: Fees may be applicable. Visit the Fees section to view all EMS/Fire/Police rates, and contact the Sector Specialist with any questions.

Police presence is required for public safety:

• To control traffic when roads are closed temporarily or permanently;
• For any filming involving weapons that will be visible to the public whether they will be fired or not for shots involving moving camera vehicles;
• To control traffic for any stunts or special effects; or,
• When explosives are being used.

All applications for Police Assistance in these cases must be made through the Sector Specialist a minimum of five (5) working days in advance.

As Police officers are called in from off-duty they are paid at their overtime rate with a minimum of three (3) hours. Eight hours notice must be given if booked services are not required.

On-duty officers, if available, can be used to assist movie production vehicles change locations where these vehicles must proceed opposite to the flow of traffic. Wrong way moves cannot occur during the rush hour.

The permission of the Calgary Police Service is required if a film production company wishes to film Police personnel vehicles, equipment, buildings, uniforms, etc. The request must be made in writing to the Calgary Police Service (CPS) Public Affairs & Media Relations Unit (PAMRU). To contact the CPS Public Affairs & Media Relations Unit, please call (403) 206-8989 for further instructions. A brief outline of the film including all pertinent details of the script involving Calgary Police Services is required a minimum of ten (10) working days prior to their use.

If firearms are be used and seen by the public and/or discharged, the Calgary Police Services Firearms Support Unit and the Film, Television & Creative Industries office must be notified at least one week (five business days) in advance. Include in the notification the time and location the filming will take place, the nature of the firearms used and the name and permanent address, phone number and date of birth of the gun wrangler.

All film Armourers/Gun Wranglers must be in possession of and be able to produce a Possession & Acquisition License (PAL) as required by the Federal Government on demand. They must be familiar with Canadian Laws with respect to storage/transportation/regulation of permitted/restricted/prohibited firearms (Storage, Display, Handling and Transportation of Certain Firearms Regulations).

All restricted and/or prohibited weapons must have an "Authorization to Transport" permit issued by the Canadian Firearms Centre (CFC). The CFC can be contacted at (403) 206-8041.

Production crews will clean up and restore the location to its original condition at the end of filming unless otherwise directed by the Film, Television & Creative Industries office.

1. Initial contact is generally made by a Location Scout or Location Manager, who is hired locally by the film company. This person will be your contact during the duration of the "shoot". Call the Logistics Coordinator at (403) 221-7829 or the Directors Guild of Canada at (403) 217-8672 to check the credentials of the scout and/or the project.
2. Agree upon the exact number of days required for the shoot plus preparation and wrap time. (A shooting day is approximately 14 hours long.) 
3. Arrange for a walk-through with the Location Manager to determine exact interiors and exteriors desired for filming; where equipment and vehicles will need to be positioned or parked; any "off-limits" areas specified by the owner; and any areas such as roof, trees, fences, windows, which may need to be used or altered during filming.
4. Decide what of your (the owners’) personal property may be used for filming; how and where to store items not used; and who will be responsible for packing and moving.
5. Determine who will be allowed on "set" during period of use.
6. Set rules regarding: smoking; use of washrooms; laundry; water; electricity; kitchen; protective floor coverings; trash, etc.
7. Establish guidelines for production company's use of owner's phone and how payment will be made to the owner.
8. Determine with the Location Manager where cast and crew will be eating their meals.
9. Decide how the owner will be accommodated during filming and any living expenses that may be required.
10. Set vehicle parking for cast and crew.
11. Find out the nature of the project and how your location will be used. Will there be special effects like smoke, fire or gunshots?
12. Establish clean-up requirements, who is responsible and when it is to be completed (within 24-48 hours), and arrange with the Location Manager for a final "walk-through" for the owners’ approval.
13. Recognize that location fees are negotiable. The owner should feel comfortable with the amount agreed upon, and a payment schedule should be established prior to any filming.
14. Create a written agreement detailing specifics – the owner may wish to add the following: "The applicant (film company) agrees to indemnify owner and to be solely and absolutely liable upon any and all claims, suits and judgments against the owner and/or applicant for personal injuries and property damages arising out of or occurring during the activities of the applicant, his (its) employees or otherwise. This agreement may be revoked at any time." A principal or agent of the production company should sign this contract.
15. Owner must get a certificate of insurance including a hold harmless clause for protection in case of any injuries on the property. All production companies should carry insurance policies that cover third-party rentals for property damage and liability. A photocopy of the insurance certificate should be given to the owner before any crew comes on the property.

This is one of the best ways to catch a bit of the magic of film making, and to share the glimmer of the spotlight. You'll also learn a little about the hard work that's part of the film industry. An extra is a person hired to provide a controllable background to the main action of the film. They come in all shapes and sizes, and it's fairly easy to become one.

You can register with an agency that provides extras to the film companies. This is a simple procedure of filling out a form which asks you a few vital statistics, when you are able to work, and what special skill you may have. You may be an accomplished horseback rider, dancer or fencer for example. They will also need a photo of you. If you don't have one, the agency will take one for you.

Only talent agencies may require a small fee for registration and photo, but small is the key word here (about $25 - $40 per year). For the fee you should be guaranteed at least one call. (BEWARE: Some disreputable agencies may try to convince you that you need an expensive photo portfolio to become an extra. This is false.) Agencies charge a small fee because their compensation comes from a percentage deducted from your wages. This is standard agency procedure and is incentive to them to find work for you.

Extras generally earn only minimum wage and most agencies take 10 to 15 per cent, depending on the type of work. Another option is to approach each production individually. You can do this by submitting a resume and photo to the attention of EXTRAS CASTING. Do not take a fee or commission. DO NOT call the offices. These offices are extremely busy and will not take any information regarding extra work over the phone.

Being an extra can be fun and exciting, but it is also hard work and requires commitment and a business-like attitude. When you sign up with an agency you will be given information about etiquette on the set. Take it to heart if you want to be asked back. Once you get the hang of it, you'll feel like an old pro. Break a leg!

1. You are a professional performer. You can help guide other performers through the production day. Someone once helped you. Always set the example of how professionals should behave.
2. Remember - your word is your bond. If you accept a booking, you are committed to that production. Do not cancel!
3. A professional always arrives 10 minutes before the call time, prepared to work.
4. Be organized to show your wardrobe to wardrobe assistants quickly.
5. Be clear on call time, location and wardrobe before you say goodbye to the casting person who telephoned you, no matter how hurried he/she may be. If you are not sure, ask questions.
6. If you are still not sure, get the name of the production company and call their office.
7. Be clear to whom you are talking to. Know the wardrobe assistant's name and hair person's name. Ask.
8. Know the name of the A.D., P.A., or Casting person who is signing you in and out. Direct questions to the relevant person. You will save your time and theirs.
9. Follow instructions. When you are moved from place to place, go quickly and quietly.
10. Keep your holding area clean. Craft service people appreciate your help. Don't argue with them. Keep clean whatever area is set up for a craft service. You will get more by helping in this area than fighting. If something is needed, ask. For example, if you need an aspirin, ask the craft service person, not an A.D. Better still, bring your own. Bring the following items: a pen, spare change (for the pay phone), something to read.
11. Do not bring valuables to a production.
12. Don't bring food, drinks or anything that is not part of the set onto the set.
13. Respect the set and don't rearrange things to suit yourself.
14. Don't rearrange your hair, make-up or wardrobe for personal comfort after a master has been shot. That hat, scarf or coat (buttoned or unbuttoned) may well be in continuity.
15. Do your job and remember your action. Give the same action each time.
16. Listen attentively. Don't make the A.D.'s repeat instructions.
17. Be aware of equipment and what the camera is doing. Learn to know when you are in frame and when you are not.
18. Time your washroom visits for slack periods.
19. If you do go to the washroom, or for a cigarette, tell the A.D., P.A., or Casting person responsible for extras where you are going. Don't wander off. Do return immediately.
20. If you have a commitment to other work that could limit your ability to do overtime, tell the person responsible for extras as soon as you arrive at work. Be sure he/she understands and that you don't get caught in a continuity situation.
21. Keep a good attitude through the day (it could be a long one). A positive outlook can make the day go faster and more pleasant for everyone.
22. Return your wardrobe at the end of the day as nicely as you received it. 
23. Disagreements: Don't argue. Make your point clearly so that the person understands, and then leave. Also, make sure you are clear in your understanding of the other person's position. Do not hold up the production or prevent people from getting away on time.