Location Scouting
From grand Collegiate Gothic halls and Brutalist landmarks to modern interiors and lush quads, the University of Toronto’s St. George campus offers one of the most versatile collections of filming locations in Ontario.
Campus Events & Conference Services (CECS) oversees all commercial filming and photography requests at St. George. Our team provides expert guidance on approvals, coordinates with university stakeholders, and manages logistics to ensure a smooth and professional experience.
Iconic Filming Locations
Some of the most sought-after filming sites in Ontario are managed by CECS, including:
- Knox College quad (Collegiate Gothic architecture).
- University College and Hart House (historic interiors).
- Convocation Hall and Myhal Auditorium (distinguished academic spaces).
- Science and chemistry labs.
- Charming heritage classrooms.
Internal Requests
For projects led by U of T faculty or staff—such as internal communications, academic content or institutional storytelling—please contact our team directly to learn more about internal processes, support services and administrative requirements.
Permits & Guidelines
A film permit issued by U of T is required for all professional productions on the St. George campus. To request one, complete the Film Submission Form and our team will respond within 15 business days.
Filming requests will only be considered if they do not disrupt the university’s academic activities, research or events.
All filming and media production requests for buildings (interior and exterior), infrastructure and properties at St. George require assessment and approval by CECS.
For news inquiries or media requests, please visit the University of Toronto Media Room.
Filming Locations on Campus
CECS coordinates access to most areas of the St. George campus. Popular spaces include historic courtyards, libraries, walkways, stadiums and academic buildings. Please contact us to learn more about availability.
Please note: Filming is not permitted at Soldiers’ Tower or Philosopher’s Walk due to commemorative and logistical restrictions.
Front Campus
Independently Managed Spaces
The following locations are managed separately and require direct contact:
Fee Structure
Filming Fees
The following fees apply to commercial filming activities:
- Base Location Fee: $5,000/day (includes one location).
- Each Additional Location: $2,000/day.
- Prep/Wrap Days: $3,000/day.
- Hold Days: $2,000/day.
Photography Fees
- Location Fee: $2,500/day for commercial photography, including:
- Advertising and merchandising (products, goods, services).
- Brochures, catalogs, sales tools, calendars.
- Professional development pieces (headshots, portfolios).
Note: Personal shoots such as engagement or graduation photography are managed separately. Please see Wedding & Lifestyle Photography for details.
Additional rental fees may apply for flagship venues such as Convocation Hall, Knox College, University College, Schwartz Reisman Innovation Campus, Chestnut and Front Campus. CECS will provide quotes upon request.
Staffing & Services
- Site Visits: First free, additional at $100/hour.
- On-Site Liaison: $150/hour.
- Additional services (security, trades, parking, caretaking) will be charged separately.
- Due to union contracts, required services must be provided by the university.
Internal Requests
- For U of T faculty or staff projects, please contact campusevents@utoronto.ca for internal processes, support and administrative requirements.
Filming Policies & Requirements
Requests & Approvals
- Filming will not be approved if it significantly disrupts university operations or requires major set construction/structural alterations.
- For interior locations, CECS must obtain approval from property managers or divisional Administrative Officers.
- Any set decoration or modifications must be approved in writing before filming.
- All areas must be restored to their original condition.
- CECS reserves the right to decline any request.
- A full script or detailed scene descriptions must be submitted prior to approval.
- Prohibited: weapons, ammunition, fireworks (authentic or replica).
- Productions unrelated to university events must maintain the anonymity of U of T in promotions/credits unless otherwise agreed.
Insurance & Contracts
Productions must provide the following prior to filming:
- Proof of $5M general liability insurance, naming The Governing Council of the University of Toronto as additional insured.
- A signed Film Location Agreement.
- All payments and documentation completed at least 72 hours prior to filming.
Cancellations & Refunds
- Location fees are non-refundable.
- Cancellations less than 72 hours before the shoot will incur full charges, including staffing/service fees.
- Rescheduling may be accommodated on a best-effort basis, subject to availability and approval.
Book Now
A special permit is required for all film productions at U of T’s St. George campus. Fill out the permit request form below and a member of our team will contact you to review dates, discuss logistics, and confirm locations.
