HIGHTSTOWN, N.J. – If the small town of Hightstown ever wanted to join in New Jersey’s growing success as part of the film industry’s shift to New Jersey, residents can forget it about it.
New legislative roadblocks are being put in place to deter filmmakers from using this tiny picturesque borough in their feature films.
The Democrat led government in Hightstown introduced and ordinance to restrict and penalize filmmakers wishing to film in their community last week.
A new ordinance introduced by the Hightstown Borough Council aims to bring order, safety, and structure to commercial film and television production in town.
The measure, known as Ordinance 2025-16, updates and strengthens the borough’s existing filming regulations.
If adopted, it will establish a modern permit system, stricter insurance requirements, clearer notification rules, and updated fee schedules for production companies.
Key Points
- Ordinance 2025-16 aligns Hightstown’s filming policies with New Jersey’s “Film Ready” community standards.
- Productions must secure permits, carry insurance, and notify nearby properties within 200 feet before filming.
- Daily fees range from $150 to $500 depending on production size, with fines up to $2,000 for violations.
Borough seeks balance between opportunity and order
Officials say the goal is to promote responsible filming while reducing disruption to residents and businesses. The measure clarifies that filming for commercial or educational purposes — including streaming platforms and major studio productions — will require prior approval from the Municipal Clerk.
Clearer standards for safety and insurance
Under the proposal, production companies must obtain liability insurance of at least $1 million per occurrence, name the borough as an additional insured, and agree to indemnify Hightstown against damages. The Borough Administrator may also require off-duty police officers for traffic or crowd control and has discretion to deny permits if filming endangers public safety or interferes with daily activity.
Stricter notification and permit deadlines
Applicants will be required to apply at least four business days before filming and provide written notice to all properties within 200 feet of the site at least seven days before shooting begins. Proof of notification must be submitted to the Borough Clerk, and any appeals of denied permits must be filed within ten days.
Updated fees and penalties
The ordinance establishes a tiered fee structure: $150 per day for productions with budgets under $20 million and $500 for larger projects. Nonprofit and student films would pay a nominal $25 application fee. Unauthorized filming could result in fines of up to $2,000 or up to 90 days in jail or community service.