Ossining board adopts local law to regulate filming on town property

The Ossining Town Board on May 26 adopted Local Law No. 1 of 2026, creating Chapter 93 of the town code to regulate filming activities on town property and within the unincorporated town. The board said the law aims to ensure safety and minimize conflicts between filming activity and town interests while providing uniform permitting procedures.

Board members noted the law follows a duly noticed public hearing on May 12, 2026. During the meeting the board issued a negative declaration under the State Environmental Quality Review Act, concluding the law will not have a significant adverse environmental impact as written. The board directed the Town Clerk to enter the local law into the town’s local law book, publish the minutes, and file a copy with the New York State Secretary of State.

The adopted law sets permit and administrative requirements for groups seeking to film on public rights-of-way and other town-controlled property. The board’s resolution included explicit goals: protect public safety, limit temporary adverse impacts to residents and businesses, and provide clear procedures and fees where appropriate. The transcript records the board’s formal finding and adoption language read into the record during the legislative session.

The law takes effect following the clerk’s filing and publication steps described in the board’s motion. The clerk will complete the required administrative notices and update permit forms to include clear language that any voluntary or fee-based items are distinct from licensing fees.

What’s next: the Town Clerk must complete filing and publication steps required by state law before the local law becomes effective in practice.