Long Branch council introduces ordinance to require commercial filming permits, schedules public hearing

The Long Branch City Council on June 25 introduced Ordinance 009-25, which would create a Chapter 233 establishing a licensing regime for commercial and movie filming in the city and set a public hearing for July 9, 2025.

Council President Mario Vieira read a summary of the ordinance, saying the chapter’s intent is to “be supportive of the film industry while at the same time protecting the business and residents of the city from any negative impacts resulting from filming.” The council moved and seconded introduction and approved the motion by roll call.

The ordinance summary presented to the council explains the city will require a filming permit and that the rule is intended to “balance the needs of the film industry and the city and its taxpayers and promote safety and welfare.” The council registered unanimous affirmative roll-call votes from council members present, and the item was placed on the agenda for final consideration at the July 9 public hearing.

No final adoption occurred at the June 25 meeting; the action taken was introduction and advertisement for the public hearing. City officials did not provide at the meeting a copy of the full draft ordinance text or a permit fee schedule during the introduction. The council did not vote on any operating details or fees at this session.

Council staff indicated the first reading had been advertised in accordance with law, and the hearing was scheduled to allow public comment and final council consideration on July 9, 2025.