New York City has proposed new rules that will drastically affect independent film makers and photographers all around the city.
Under the new rules proposed on May 25, 2007 by the Mayor’s Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcast (MOFTB), any group of two or more people using a handheld camera (still or video) for more than 30 minutes at a single location (defined as a 100-foot area) would have to apply for and obtain a permit and would have to present proof of $1 million in insurance (unless a waiver was obtained). Also under the new rules, any group of five or more people using a single tripod for more than 10 minutes would have to obtain a permit and have insurance.
The new rules were open to public comments until June 27th but that has been extended until August 3rd, 2007…that’s 2 days from now. What can you do?! Please email your comments and concerns to the address below and let your voice be heard. These new rules, if passed will have a tremendous impact on this great city, where no day goes by that thousands of moments are captured in video and film.
If you’re a filmaker or photographer or just want to express your views please e-mail or send in a letter to:
Julianne Cho
Assistant Commissioner
Mayor’s Office of Film, Theatre & Broadcasting
1697 Broadway
New York, N.Y. 10019
jcho@film.nyc.gov
Now I leave you with this rap music video about the subject by the Comedy troupe “Olde English”:
For more information visit: http://www.nyclu.org/permitrules/