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Eatontown adopts 'Film Ready' ordinance to smooth filming logistics; council cites Netflix project at Fort Monmouth
Summary
Council adopted Ordinance 07-2026 updating the borough's Chapter 152 'Filming' rules to streamline permitting, insurance requirements and fees; supporters at the hearing said it will boost the local economy and help the borough capitalize on the Fort Monmouth/Netflix project.
After a public hearing, the Borough Council adopted Ordinance 07-2026 to update Chapter 152 ("Filming") to standardize permit requirements, insurance and bonding, hours, and a fee schedule for filming in public spaces. The ordinance text expands definitions (including a definition of "major motion picture"), sets permit timelines and insurance minimums, allows the Zoning Officer or Business Administrator to authorize waivers in limited circumstances, and establishes fees and penalties for violations.
Public commenters expressed support. Resident Dee Slattery congratulated the council on being proactive and said the filming initiative will help the borough's economy and its relationship with Netflix. Local filmmaker Brian Papworth told the council the ordinance would create jobs and invited officials to a film-industry expo. Council voted by roll call to adopt the ordinance with all present voting AYE.
The ordinance includes a six-day limit for filming at a single location (extendable for major motion pictures or series), provisions for off-duty police and fire standby, and a set of fees and bonds intended to hold productions to local standards. Implementation tasks include routing permits to the police, fire and building departments and providing an application process for expedited requests.
