NEW JERSEY — Sparta Township and Hunterdon County are among 21 municipalities and counties newly designated as “Film Ready Communities” by the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission (NJMPTVC), part of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority.
The designation follows completion of the Film Ready New Jersey Program, which prepares towns and counties to accommodate movie and television productions and market themselves as film destinations — a move aimed at boosting local economies and attracting production companies.
“From the Jersey Shore to the Pine Barrens, and from vibrant cities to quiet suburban neighborhoods, New Jersey offers a remarkable variety of landscapes that meet the diverse needs of film and television productions,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has reestablished itself as a premier destination for the industry — creating jobs, supporting small businesses, and driving meaningful economic growth in communities across the state.”
The new designations also include Atlantic City, Bridgewater, Carteret, Clinton Town, East Brunswick, Florence Township, Gloucester Township, Guttenberg, Keyport, Leonia, Little Silver, Livingston, Maplewood, Moorestown, Mount Holly, New Providence, Ocean, and Union Township, as well as Salem County.
Film Ready New Jersey is a five-step certification and marketing program that educates municipalities on production basics, sets standards for attracting filmmakers, and provides training on economic impact, permitting, small business opportunities, and infrastructure expansion.
“With Film Ready localities, studios and networks know they’ll find communities prepared to support productions of every scale,” said NJMPTVC Executive Director Jon Crowley.
The recognition comes as New Jersey continues to attract major productions, including the Academy Award-nominated A Complete Unknown, which filmed in 17 municipalities across the state.
The NJMPTVC’s next Film Ready Workshop will be held during the 2025 League of Municipalities in Atlantic City on Nov. 18.
