Tempe Filming & Location Scouting Checklist

Events and Special Uses Arizona 3 Minutes Read · published February 20, 2026 Flag of Arizona

Tempe, Arizona requires permits and coordination for commercial filming, photography, and location scouting on public property and many city-managed sites. This checklist summarizes the permitting pathway, compliance steps, enforcement contacts, and common pitfalls so production teams, scouts, and location managers can plan shoots that respect city bylaws and park rules.

Overview

Film shoots and commercial location scouting that use streets, sidewalks, parks, public parking, or other city property typically need a permit and may require traffic control, proof of insurance, and coordination with Tempe departments. Private property shoots usually need owner permission and may still require city permits for impacts on the public right-of-way.

Contact the city early to confirm requirements for your specific site.

Permits & Preproduction Checklist

  • Determine whether you are on public property, a park, or private property and identify the property owner.
  • Apply for a film/special event permit as early as possible; some locations require multi-week lead time.[1]
  • Prepare certificates of insurance naming the City of Tempe as additional insured when required by the permit conditions.
  • Plan traffic control and public-safety staffing if your shoot affects vehicle or pedestrian flow.
  • Reserve parks or city facilities when applicable and comply with park-specific rules.

Penalties & Enforcement

City enforcement for filming and location scouting is handled by the issuing department and Tempe Police for public-safety impacts. Specific monetary fines or schedules for unpermitted filming are not specified on the cited pages; consult the permit office for enforcement policies and penalties.[1] For code-based violations, see the Tempe Code for applicable sections and sanctions.[2]

Unpermitted activities may lead to stop-work orders or removal of equipment.
  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page; see the municipal code for code-based penalties.[2]
  • Escalation: not specified on the cited page; cities typically escalate for continuing violations.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work or removal orders, permit denial, or required mitigation measures may be imposed.
  • Enforcer and complaints: Development Services / Special Event Permitting coordinates permits and initial compliance; Tempe Police address immediate safety issues and may issue citations.[1]
  • Appeal/review: specific appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited pages; ask the issuing office for administrative review procedures.

Applications & Forms

The primary application is the City of Tempe film or special event permit application; specific form names, fee schedules, and deadlines are published by the permitting office. Fees and exact submission steps are not specified on the cited page; contact the permit office for current forms and fee tables.[1]

Permit terms may require insurance and indemnification; verify certificate requirements early.

Operational Requirements

  • Noise and hours: comply with local noise ordinances and park hours; amplified sound may need approval.
  • Parking and load zones: secure parking permits or paid parking as required for crew and trucks.
  • Site restoration: return public spaces to pre-shoot condition to avoid remediation charges.
  • On-site contacts: have permit documentation and city contacts available during the shoot.
Always carry a printed or digital copy of the approved permit while on location.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to film on public property in Tempe?
Yes. Filming on city streets, parks, or other public property typically requires a City of Tempe film or special event permit and coordination with the issuing office.[1]
How far in advance should I apply?
Apply as early as possible; some locations and larger productions require multiple weeks of lead time. Confirm timelines with the permitting office.[1]
What if I film without a permit?
You risk stop-work orders, removal of equipment, and code enforcement; specific fines are not specified on the cited pages and depend on the violation and applicable code section.[2]

How-To

  1. Identify the exact shoot location and whether it involves city-owned property or impacts the public right-of-way.
  2. Contact City of Tempe Special Event/Film permitting to confirm permit requirements and lead times.[1]
  3. Complete and submit the film/special event permit application and required insurance certificates.
  4. Arrange traffic control, parking, and public-safety staffing per permit conditions.
  5. Obtain written approval, carry the permit on-site, and comply with all permit conditions during the shoot.
  6. Restore the site after filming and submit any required post-event reports.

Key Takeaways

  • Permits are commonly required for public-property shoots.
  • Insurance and traffic/public-safety plans are often conditions of approval.
  • Contact the City of Tempe permitting office early to avoid delays.[1]

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Tempe Special Events & Filming (Permitting)
  2. [2] City of Tempe Code of Ordinances (Municode)

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