Read about the incredible array of film and media organizations and services offered across all nine Bay Area counties here.

The Film SF Locations Library is a comprehensive collection of filming options in the City and County of San Francisco.

Is the program rolling or does it have an application window?

The program is rolling and does not have an application window. Participation is subject to availability of funds.

When do I get my rebate?

Rebates are issued on a first-come, first-served basis depending on the date a production submits a complete final paperwork and rebate request package. It can take up to 6 months.

Does approval guarantee reimbursement?

No. Approval to participate in the program does not guarantee reimbursement. Reimbursement is based on verified eligible expenditures and available funds.

What is the maximum rebate available?

$1,000,000 per project, and $1,000,000 per season for series.

Are commercials eligible?

No. Commercials are not eligible under Administrative Code Chapter 57.

What qualifies as a San Francisco vendor?

A business located within San Francisco with an active San Francisco business registration, supported by invoices and documentation.

Do San Francisco resident wages qualify?

Yes, subject to verification and capped at $100,000 per individual per project. Wages for both Above-the-Line and Below-the-Line positions qualify.

Can City costs be reimbursed?

Yes. Eligible City permitting fees and City staffing costs may qualify for a 100% rebate.

Do we need a CPA?

Film SF will determine whether a CPA audit is required or whether Film SF will perform internal verification.

Are service charges on city fees included in what you rebate back?

No, service charges are not eligible for a rebate.

What SF goods and services are not eligible to submit as part of the rebate?

Tobacco, bottled water, illegal drugs, alcohol, and sugary drinks. Read more here.

See past program participants here.

If an applicant’s initial application (Phase A), pre-production paperwork (Phase B), or an approved applicant’s final application (Phase C) is disapproved by Film SF, or if the applicant disagrees with the amount of the tax rebate granted by Film SF, the applicant may appeal such determination. An appeal shall be made by sending a letter to the Controller of the City and County of San Francisco, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room 316, San Francisco, CA, 94102, or via email to: film@sfgov.org, within thirty (30) days from the date of Film SF correspondence notifying applicant of the challenged decision. The applicant's letter must include a mailing address or email address for the applicant, a statement of the reasons why applicant believes that the Film SF’s decision is unwarranted, and other materials that applicant alleges support applicant's position, including but not limited to receipts and other evidence of qualified production costs.

The Controller, or the Controller’s designee, shall issue a written, final order deciding the appeal within sixty (60) days of receipt of the appeal. The Controller shall transmit the decision on appeal to both the applicant, at the address provided in the appeal letter, and to Film SF. If the appeal is granted, the Controller, or Controller’s designee, shall specify in the written order the steps that the City must take to comport with the decision.