15 New Jersey Towns Earn 'Film Ready' Designation

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Fifteen more municipalities in New Jersey have been added to the state's 'Film Ready' program, bringing the total number of certified towns to 58. The designation makes it easier for production crews to film in these communities by streamlining the permitting process and ensuring public safety protocols are in place. While most of the new additions are in the northern part of the state, the program aims to make the entire Garden State more attractive to the film industry.

Why it matters

As New Jersey positions itself as a premier filming destination on the East Coast, the 'Film Ready' program helps local economies capitalize on the influx of movie and TV productions. Hosting film crews can provide a significant boost to businesses through catering, lodging, equipment rentals, and other services. The program also raises the profile of participating towns, potentially leading to more tourism and economic development opportunities.

The details

The 15 new towns that earned the 'Film Ready' designation include a mix of college communities, river towns, suburban areas, and shore-adjacent boroughs across northeastern New Jersey. To receive the certification, each municipality completed a five-step process covering permits, public safety, and other logistical considerations for hosting film productions. While South Jersey towns like Cape May were notably absent from this latest round of additions, Atlantic City had previously been certified under the program.

• The New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission added the 15 new 'Film Ready' towns in April 2026.
• The initial 21 towns were certified back in August 2025, bringing the statewide total to 58 as of the latest announcement.

What’s next

The state is expected to continue expanding the 'Film Ready' program to more municipalities across New Jersey, making it easier for production crews to find suitable filming locations throughout the Garden State.