What should residents expect when filming happens on their Markham street?Heritage streets in Unionville and Markham Village are popular with film and TV productions. Residents can usually expect advance notice, temporary parking limits, equipment trucks, lights and short traffic holds. Productions arrange street use with the City. If a production asks to use your home, driveway or lawn, the fee and terms are negotiated privately, so get a written agreement covering insurance, damage, hours and areas. Confirm current rules with the City of Markham.
Seeing a familiar storefront or front porch on screen is part of the charm of living in Markham’s historic neighbourhoods. Living on a street that films often is a slightly different experience.
Michael John Lau, a REALTOR® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, shares what buyers can expect on streets that see regular productions.
What residents usually see
- A notice letter before the shoot
- No-parking signs on parts of the street
- Trucks, generators and lighting set-ups
- Brief traffic holds while cameras roll
- Early starts or late finishes on some days
Your rights and questions
Productions coordinate street use with the City. If something is unclear, contact the production’s location manager named on the notice first, then the City. Keep your driveway access and safety concerns in writing.
Renting your home for filming
| Term | What to agree in writing |
|---|---|
| Fee | Daily rate, prep and wrap days |
| Areas used | Rooms, driveway, lawn, exterior |
| Insurance | Proof of liability coverage naming you |
| Damage | Walk-through before and after, repair terms |
| Hours | Start and finish times, noise limits |
Check with your insurer, and with your condo board if you live in a condo, before you agree.
Love Markham’s heritage streets?
Michael John Lau can help you find a home in Unionville or Markham Village.
Book a buyer consultationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
For buyers
Ask neighbours and the seller how often filming happens on the street. For some, it adds excitement and a little income; for others, it is an inconvenience.
Weighing it up
A heritage street that films often is usually a sign of a beautiful, well-kept setting. Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information before you buy.
Life on a filming street comes with a little extra character. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Does Markham get a lot of filming?
Heritage areas such as Unionville and Markham Village are popular with productions.
Will I be notified before filming on my street?
Productions typically send notices to affected residents. Confirm current rules with the City.
Can a production block my driveway?
Driveway access should be discussed with the location manager in advance.
Can I rent my house for filming?
Yes, by private agreement with the production. Get the terms in writing.
What should a location agreement include?
Fee, areas used, insurance, damage terms and hours.
Who do I contact with a filming concern?
The location manager on the notice, then the City of Markham.
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are licensed REALTORS® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage, 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4. Licence #4784577. Call (647) 370-8885. This is a general guide. A current City of Markham filming policy could not be confirmed online; check permit and notification rules with the City of Markham before relying on them. This article is general information only and is not financial, legal or tax advice. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with another brokerage.
