Film Permit required?

[Kajito Nagib]

I will be shooting somewhere in NYC for just one afternoon location hasn't been decided yet. Based on the info from nygov website do I need a permit? I'll be using just one video camera (Sony FS700) on a tripod.My wife will assit me and I hired two actors. No additional equipment cables light etc will be used. Made in NY - Mayor's Office of Film, Theatre & Broadcasting - About
here is a quote from their website.

"When a permit is required
Permit Required: $300 application fee applies
Equipment or vehicles are used or the person filming asserts exclusive use of City property.
Insurance is required for this permit Equipment does not include hand-held devices (such as hand-held film, still, or television cameras or video cameras) or tripods used to support such cameras."

[Michael Wisniewski]

From the website:

A permit is not required for filming that uses hand-held cameras or tripods and does not assert exclusive use of City property. Standing on a street, walkway of a bridge, sidewalk, or other pedestrian passageway while using a hand-held device and not otherwise asserting exclusive use of City property is not an activity that requires a permit.

[Steve House]

Why don't you just call up the film office, describe exactly what you intend to do, and ask 'em what you need.

[Mike Watson]

On the left coast, it is common to shoot quickly, efficiently, quietly, and not get caught. Small camera (aren't they all?) will help here. Any lighting equipment is a dead giveaway, and will get a cop to stop and ask for your permit. If you can get away with not having one, it is easier to skip it.

[Kajito Nagib]

I always shoot in stealth mode and never had a problem however for this project I'm paying the actors and renting some lenses so I don't want to worry about being caught. Today I scouted the area and found a good location at a park. I went to the park's website and downloaded a form to fill out. They will decide if I need a permit or not. thanks everyone.