Who should use this Permit? Anyone is free to take pictures or video with a handheld consumer camera inside Grand Central Terminal. However if you will be using professional equipment, like a tripod, light, or stabilizer, or if you will be using the content for commercial purposes, you must complete this Permit process to file a Grand Central Terminal Still Photography/Film Permit Application.
How long does the process typically take? Once the online Permit is filed, the review process will officially begin for your proposed request, and you will be contacted by an MTA Filming & Events representative. We recommend allowing at least ten (10) business days for the process. The online Permit must be filed at least five (5) business days prior to the requested date; we cannot guarantee review of any Permits filed with less than five (5) business days’ advance notice.
Who reviews the Permit? What determines if my request is approved or denied? An MTA Filming & Events representative reviews each Permit and any accompanying documents to determine availability and feasibility of the request. The primary focus is ensuring the continued safe and orderly operation of Grand Central Terminal—a major transportation hub and tourist destination—during each shoot, as well as verifying that the shoot itself will be conducted in a safe, secure, and code compliant manner.
Are there date or time restrictions? Permits are issued for a specific date and time on a first-come-first-served basis. In order to avoid rush hours, on weekdays all productions are limited to a time period between 10 AM and 3 PM or after 8 PM. Weekends have no official rush, so time is more flexible. As this is an active transportation hub, there are black-out dates when no Permits will be issued.
What if I have a recognizable celebrity participant, require electrical power, or have another special request? We recommend discussing the details of your proposed request with an MTA Filming & Events representative by using the General Inquiry form found here before submitting your Grand Central Terminal Still Photography/Film Permit Application. They will be able to determine if it is appropriate and/or if they can accommodate your request.
How much will this cost? Each Permit requires a non-refundable $250 filing fee. There may be additional license fee requirements if you will be using the resulting imagery for commercial purposes.
How do I determine if my use is a commercial use? Commercial use of Grand Central Terminal imagery requires a fee-based license agreement, as most elements of the interior and exterior are protected by trademark. To determine if your use is commercial and quote the appropriate use fee, we recommend discussing the details of your planned media use and duration with an MTA Filming & Events representative by using the General Inquiry form found here.
Can I cancel a Grand Central Terminal Still Photography/Film Permit Application? Please notify your Filming & Events representative as soon as possible of a cancellation request so that your scheduled date and time can be freed up for other requests. The required $250 filing fee is non-refundable.
