Markham Film and Photography Permit Rules

Events and Special Uses Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of Ontario

Markham, Ontario requires permits for organized film and photography activities that use public property, streets or municipal facilities. This guide explains who issues permits, typical application steps, enforcement and practical actions producers and photographers should take before a shoot to comply with municipal requirements and minimize delays.

What requires a permit

Permits are generally required for commercial or organized filming or photography that affects public space, traffic, parks, sidewalks or municipal property. Small, private still photography with no municipal impact is often exempt but confirm with the city before shooting.

Always check the city permit page early in planning to avoid delays.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by City of Markham by-law enforcement and the departments that manage parks, roads and permits. Specific monetary fines and formal penalties for filming and photography activities are not specified on the cited page; see the enforcement contact for case-specific guidance.[2]

  • Enforcer: By-law Enforcement and relevant city divisions for parks, roads and facilities.
  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation (first/repeat/continuing offences): not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: municipal orders to stop activity, removal of equipment, permit suspension or revocation, and referral to court where applicable.
  • Appeal/review: not specified on the cited page; contact the enforcing department for appeal routes and any time limits.

Common violations and typical outcomes

  • Filming without a required permit — enforcement action and potential stop order; specific fines not specified.
  • Failure to follow traffic/road closure conditions — orders to cease and possible administrative penalties.
  • Non-compliance with permit conditions (noise, hours, parking) — permit suspension or additional conditions.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes a film and photography permit application and guidance for applicants; fee schedules and form details are available from the city permit page. Specific fee amounts and form numbers are not specified on the cited page; applicants should use the official application link to access the current form and fee schedule.[1]

  • Application: City of Markham Film & Photography Permit application (online or PDF where provided).
  • Fees: not specified on the cited page; check the application or fee schedule for current rates.
  • Deadlines: submit well in advance; the city page provides recommended lead times.
  • Submission: follow instructions on the official permit page for online submission or contact details.

How it is processed

Typical processing involves review by the permitting unit and coordination with parking, roads, police and parks depending on impacts. The city may require proof of insurance, traffic management plans, municipal fees and indemnities as conditions of approval; specific requirements are detailed on the permit page.[1]

Carry proof of the issued permit on location at all times.

Action steps

  • Determine if your shoot needs a permit and which municipal spaces are involved.
  • Complete the City of Markham Film & Photography Permit application and supply required attachments.
  • Pay applicable fees and obtain required insurance certificates and road/traffic approvals.
  • Contact By-law Enforcement or the listed permit contact for enforcement or compliance questions.[2]

FAQ

Do I need a permit for still photography?
If your still photography uses only private property and does not impact municipal property, parking, traffic or public safety, a city permit is often not required; confirm with the city for borderline cases.
How long does approval take?
Processing times vary by complexity and required approvals; the city recommends applying early and checking the permit page for lead-time guidance.[3]
What insurance is required?
The city typically requires commercial general liability insurance naming the City as additional insured; specific limits and wording are on the permit application page.

How-To

  1. Confirm whether your activity affects municipal property and requires a permit by reviewing the city film permit page.
  2. Complete and submit the official film and photography permit application with required documents.
  3. Pay fees, provide insurance and obtain any necessary traffic, parking or park approvals before the shoot.
  4. Keep the approved permit on site and follow all permit conditions during filming.

Key Takeaways

  • Always check the City of Markham film permit page early in planning.
  • Permits may require insurance, traffic plans and fees; details on the application.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Markham Film & Photography Permit page
  2. [2] City of Markham By-law Enforcement
  3. [3] City of Markham Events & Special Uses guidance

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