Hot Spot Maps & Open Street Maps: Essential Tools for Producers & Location Scouts in NYC Permitting
With spring around the corner, NYC’s streets will once again be prime locations for film and photography shoots. However, securing the right permits is crucial to avoiding unexpected delays. As a location scout, understanding the city's regulations can make or break a shoot. At White Wall Locations, we’re here to help streamline the process. Two essential tools every location scout and production team should use are the Hot Spot Map and Open Street Map.
What is a Hot Spot Map?
A Hot Spot Map highlights areas designated by the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment as limited or off-limits for permitting. This system provides relief to neighborhoods that have been heavily filmed, allowing residents a break from productions.Common hot spots include:High-traffic tourist areas (e.g., Times Square, Central Park)Government buildings and courthousesHigh-security zonesResidential areas with filming restrictionsFor location scouts, referencing the Hot Spot Map is a key step in the scouting process. It helps determine whether a location is viable before pitching it to production, preventing last-minute setbacks and ensuring a smooth permitting process.
What is an Open Street Map?
NYC’s Open Streets Program transforms certain roads into pedestrian-friendly spaces, often restricting vehicle access. The Open Street Map provides real-time updates on road closures, making it a critical resource for location scouts when planning shoot logistics.Using an Open Street Map helps with:Identifying available streets for filmingSecuring parking and load-in zonesAvoiding disruptions from parades, marathons, and city eventsKnowing which streets are open and accessible ensures a smooth shoot day, allowing production teams to plan efficiently.
Accessing These Maps
For easy access to both maps, you can find them on our site’s resource page. You can also visit the New York City permit office webpage for official updates and information.
