Filming in Central Park: Key Tips for a Smooth Shoot
If you're planning a photo or film shoot in Central Park, there are essential guidelines to follow to ensure your project runs smoothly. As an NYC location scout or a producer seeking a film permit, here's what you need to know:
Advance Notice is Key
Give yourself enough lead time to get approval from the park before submitting a permit with the Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment, which also takes time.
The Central Park Conservancy officially requests a minimum of three business days for filming. However, be aware they may take up to two weeks for final approval, especially for sensitive locations like the Conservatory Garden.
Planning ahead is crucial to avoid last-minute delays.
Secure Park Approval First
Before submitting your permit application to the Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment, you must receive final approval from the Central Park Conservancy.
Contact them at film@centralparknyc.org to start the process.
Fees (which come in the form of donation requests) are determined based on your project's scope, so be prepared to provide clear details, such as:
Headcount
Equipment
Props
Other production specifics
Parking Insights for Your Production
Dead Road: This is the only designated parking area within Central Park for approved production vehicles. It is located near Bethesda Fountain and Cherry Hill, providing convenient access to those areas.
Street Parking: For better flexibility, consider parking on nearby streets outside the park, especially close to your desired entrance. Checking where park entrances are in relation to your planned shoot location can help identify the best parking options.
Safety Tip: Whenever possible, park on a side street rather than on 5th Avenue or Central Park West to reduce traffic concerns. Ask the motorhome driver where the doors open to ensure they are positioned facing the sidewalk for easier and safer access.
Independent Vendors in the Park
Central Park's vendors, such as hot dog stands, bike rentals, and the iconic Boathouse, are independently operated.
If you plan to feature these in your shoot, you'll need to contact each vendor directly for approval.
Pro Tip: Each hot dog, roasted nut, and ice cream vendor is independently owned, so you must coordinate with that specific vendor for their consent. Bring cash to purchase items or to pay for signing a release.
Seasonal Lawn Closures
During the winter season, certain areas in Central Park are closed to allow the lawns to rest. Additionally, several areas may be under maintenance or restoration, which can impact your shoot. Winter closures can include:
The Conservatory Water by the Alice in Wonderland statue (drained)
Bethesda Fountain (drained)
The Boathouse (closed)
The arcade near Bethesda (under restoration)
Other key seasonal closures:
North Meadow: Closed for the winter season to allow the lawns to recover.
Sheep Meadow: Closed during the winter season to protect the lawn.
Heckscher Ballfields: Closed during the winter season to allow the lawns to rest.
Great Lawn: Closed during the winter season to maintain the lawn's health.
Sidewalks are Part of Central Park
The sidewalks that surround the park on the street side are considered part of Central Park itself.
If your shoot will involve these perimeter sidewalks, you will need approval from the Central Park Conservancy as well.
Prohibited Filming Locations
The following areas are strictly off-limits for filming:
All playgrounds
The Shuman Running Track around the Reservoir
The Hallett Nature Sanctuary
The bowling and croquet greens
Closed landscapes (fenced-in areas)
Restricted areas
All park facilities, including comfort stations and visitor centers
Compliance is Critical
For all restrictions, you can visit their site here.
Central Park has strict rules to protect the park's landscape, wildlife, and visitors. These include:
No filming on weekends or holidays.
No props, equipment, or cables left unattended.
No attaching objects to trees, benches, or structures.
Vehicles must stay on paved roads and adhere to a 15 mph speed limit.
No equipment on specific lawns.
By following these steps and ensuring clear communication with the Central Park Conservancy, your filming experience in NYC's iconic green space can be efficient and hassle-free.
Happy shooting!
