Before requesting insurance documents for a shoot, write down where the production will work and what will happen there. A location worksheet gives the permitting office and your insurance representative a clearer starting point. It does not replace a permit application or confirm insurance coverage.
Confirm the permitting jurisdiction
A Miami-area address does not, by itself, identify the right permitting office. The City of Miami says its film permit covers locations within the city, and directs applicants to check the location using its mapping tool. Its instructions distinguish the city from neighboring municipalities.
Start with the City of Miami's permit guidance or the relevant local office. Ask which application process applies to the exact location before arranging documents around an assumed jurisdiction.
Prepare a location worksheet
The Miami-Dade Film Office lists location, production-company information, dates, times, scene description, production contact and cast-and-crew counts among its application inputs. Its list also includes budget and lodging information where applicable. Use the current application to confirm the required details.
This preparation worksheet separates a production fact from a question that still needs an answer:
| Production fact to prepare | Question for the permitting office |
|---|---|
| Proposed location and activities | Which office handles this location? |
| Shoot, setup and breakdown plans | Which dates and times belong in the application? |
| A short scene description | Does this activity need further review or documents? |
| Proposed cast and crew counts | What supporting information does the application require? |
| Proposed parking or street use | Who should confirm any related permissions? |
| Production contact | Who receives questions and the permit decision? |
For example, a scene inside a building and equipment parked outside may raise different questions. Describe the planned activities, then let the permitting office identify the applicable requirements. Do not assume that the location owner's permission answers every permit question.
Keep insurance documents on a separate check
The City of Miami states that proof of insurance is needed to finalize its film permit, although it is not needed to begin the application. Miami-Dade's published application-information page also lists an insurance certificate. Follow the current instructions for the jurisdiction involved rather than applying one office's requirements everywhere.
Ask your insurance representative to review the actual written insurance requirements. A request for a certificate is not confirmation that the requested coverage or wording is available. Policy terms, endorsements and the insurer's decision still matter.
Confirm the next step with the permitting office
Use your worksheet to confirm the required application and documents with the appropriate office. For related preparation, read our permit and certificate information, certificate-wording guide and first-shoot-day checklist.
This is a planning aid and general education, not legal advice, permit approval or evidence of insurance. Requirements depend on the location and planned activity.
Sources
- City of Miami: film permit application guidance, checked October 16, 2026
- Miami-Dade Film Office: application information, checked October 16, 2026