Filmmakers, head to Tucson for free permits and big tax breaks
The Tucson Film Office offers some great incentives to shoot in Arizona.
Permits:
"If you are planning a production using the property of Pima County or City of Tucson, the Tucson Film Office staff guarantees the elimination of red tape associated with a local film production.
We provide no-fee permits, production manuals which include professionally skilled crew, and reliable information regarding a Tucson shoot.
We will personally assist with location scoutings as well as coordinate arrangements with Fire, Police and Traffic Engineering Department personnel.
In short, this office is well qualified to assist in all your local filming needs to ensure a happy and successful production."
Tax breaks/credits:
There are now two ways for you to save in Tucson.
- No sales tax.
Production companies are exempt from paying state sales tax on all production-related costs. That's a savings of 5.6%
- Up to 20% back.
If you spend more than $250,000 a year in Arizona, you will receive a rebate on all production-related costs, including salaries to Arizona crew and talent. Rebate is in the form of a transferable tax credit you can use or sell.
- $250,000 – $1M - 10% credit
- $1M – $3M - 15% credit
- Over $3M - 20% credit