15 New Jersey Towns Earn 'Film Ready' Designation

The Garden State continues to attract more movie and TV productions with its latest batch of certified filming locations.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 8:52pm

A high-end studio still life photograph featuring a collection of shiny, geometric objects arranged elegantly on a plain white background, conceptually representing the abstract ideas of film production, economic development, and community partnerships.A behind-the-scenes look at the tangible benefits New Jersey communities are reaping from their 'Film Ready' certifications.Atlantic City Today

Fifteen more municipalities in New Jersey have earned the state's 'Film Ready' designation, bringing the statewide total to 58 communities officially open for Hollywood business. The new additions span college towns, river communities, suburban townships, and shore-adjacent boroughs across the northeastern part of the state, completing a five-step certification process to streamline filming permits and public safety protocols.

Why it matters

New Jersey has quietly become one of the most in-demand filming destinations on the East Coast, and the state is working quickly to make sure as many communities as possible can capitalize on the economic benefits that come with hosting movie and TV productions, including catering, lodging, equipment rentals, and security jobs.

The details

The New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission just added 15 more municipalities to its official Film Ready roster, including college towns and river communities to suburban townships and shore-adjacent boroughs across the northeastern portion of the state. These towns completed a five-step certification process covering permits, public safety, and other logistics to make it easier for location scouts to film in their communities.

  • In August 2025, the initial 21 towns were certified as Film Ready.
  • As of April 2026, the statewide total has grown to 58 Film Ready communities.

The players

New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission

The state agency responsible for certifying municipalities as 'Film Ready' and promoting New Jersey as a filming destination.

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What’s next

With more towns becoming 'Film Ready', New Jersey is expected to continue attracting a growing number of movie and TV productions, bringing additional economic activity to local communities across the state.

The takeaway

New Jersey's strategic efforts to streamline the filming process and designate 'Film Ready' communities are paying off, as the state solidifies its reputation as a premier East Coast destination for the entertainment industry.