What does Location Manager mean?
Location Manager is the crew member responsible for finding, securing, and managing all real-world filming locations for a production. The location manager scouts and evaluates potential locations based on the script’s requirements and the director’s vision, negotiates agreements with property owners, obtains filming permits from local authorities, coordinates with local law enforcement and community stakeholders, and manages the logistical relationship between the production and its locations throughout the filming period. The location manager’s work begins in pre-production and continues through the final wrap out from each location.
Example:The location manager spent three weeks scouting neighborhoods across the city before finding the exterior of the house that matched the production designer’s vision — she then negotiated a two-week filming agreement with the homeowner that included compensation and a detailed restoration clause.
Example: When the child actor’s scene required a working school location, the location manager coordinated with the school district to secure permissions, arranged the filming schedule around the school’s calendar, and ensured all crew members had completed background checks required by the district.
Did you know?
Location managers must navigate an extraordinary range of challenges — from neighbor complaints and permit restrictions to unexpected weather and the complex logistics of closing public streets. In major cities like New York and Los Angeles, filming permits can take weeks to obtain and may require coordination with dozens of city departments simultaneously. Experienced location managers develop relationships with local officials and community liaisons that make these processes significantly smoother.
You can also find “Location Manager” and related terms in this category: Planning and Pre-Production.
