NEW JERSEY — Fifteen municipalities across New Jersey have been designated as Film Ready Communities after completing a state program designed to help local governments attract film and television productions, officials announced Wednesday.
The New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission, part of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, said the communities completed the Film Ready New Jersey Program, which trains municipalities on how to accommodate movie and television productions and market themselves as filming destinations.
The newest Film Ready Communities include Edison, Fanwood, Garwood, Hamilton, Hanover, Highland Park, Hightstown, Lambertville, New Brunswick, Newton, Oceanport, Phillipsburg, Randolph, Robbinsville and Shrewsbury.
“New Jersey’s variety of landscapes and locations, from charming main streets and bustling city blocks to rugged mountains and vast farmland, are a major asset for the state’s film and television industry, ensuring producers can find the perfect locale for their next feature film,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss. “The newest cohort of Film Ready Communities will be prepared for the industry’s continued growth, which will support Governor Sherril’s vision to create jobs for residents, support small businesses, and drive meaningful economic growth in municipalities across the Garden State.”
With the addition of the latest group, New Jersey now has 58 municipalities certified as Film Ready Communities, including those recognized in previous cohorts announced in March 2024 and August 2025.
Officials said the program helps local governments prepare for the logistical needs of film and television productions, including permitting, public safety coordination and working with production crews.
“As film and television production continues to break records in New Jersey, local communities need to be prepared to handle the unique needs of the industry,” said NJMPTVC Executive Director Jon Crowley. “The Film Ready Program establishes statewide consistency and provides expert guidance on everything from permitting to public safety management, strengthening the state’s industry leadership as more producers choose the Garden State for their next big production.”
The Film Ready New Jersey initiative is a five-step certification and marketing program that provides workshops and guidance from industry professionals, local officials and commission staff. The training covers topics such as the economic impact of film productions, permitting requirements, opportunities for small businesses and developing local film infrastructure.
State officials say the program is part of broader efforts to expand New Jersey’s growing film and television industry and bring additional economic opportunities to communities across the state.
