With more film projects coming to the area, a permitting process becomes necessary to address certain inconveniences to the public that may result. Port Wentworth’s straightforward procedures will ensure that proper standards are met, the public is notified of any impacts and production companies can maintain their schedule.
Professionals or students wishing to engage in commercial film production activity, on public or private property, must first be granted approval from the City Administrator or Mayor and Council, if one (1) or more of the following conditions is met:
- the production seeks permission to conduct certain activities prohibited under local law
- the production requires state or federal permitting or approval
- the production calls for city services and/or
- the production requires public parking
Additional permits may be required from other government agencies such as the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) or the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
A permit application is required for any production filming on public property. Permits are available during normal business hours, Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Port Wentworth City Hall, 7224 GA Highway 21, Port Wentworth, Georgia 31407.
Applications are considered on a first-come, first-serve basis and shall not conflict with annual city events or activities already approved. No more than one production in the same location will be permitted due to limited infrastructure and city resources. Failure of the production company or student filmmaker to comply with the City of Port Wentworth filming guidelines and conditions set forth on the permit, or the use of any location not specified in the permit, shall give Port Wentworth grounds to revoke the permit or take restrictive actions as necessary. Submission of a permit application does not guarantee approval. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.