Hello everyone,
I’m currently in pre-production for my female-driven horror proof of concept, SAMMIE, shooting in Lacey, Washington. The project builds heavy atmosphere — the final scene involves fog as a key part of the story and visual tone.This will be my first time manipulating atmosphere on a set, so I’d love some guidance from filmmakers who’ve been through this before.
A few questions:
Permits:
For a small proof of concept filming mainly in a residential area and garage space, what kind of permits should I look into?
Does using fog or smoke trigger any special permits or require notice to local fire departments?
Where’s the best place to start in Washington — city, county, or state level?
Fog / Atmosphere Tips:
I’ll be using small, battery-powered handheld smoke machines (not industrial foggers).
Any tips on safely managing fog indoors, controlling its density, or keeping continuity between takes?
How do you balance lighting and exposure when fog is part of the final look?
I’m a bit nervous since this is my first project working with environmental effects, and I want to make sure everything’s handled safely and looks cinematic. If you are curious about what my project is about the logline and synopsis are in my profile.
Any advice, checklists, or experiences would mean a lot!
Thanks in advance,
RK Epps
Writer / Director — SAMMIE
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These are best answered by your local city hall. If it's your own garage space, and you don't have a big crew, then why bother with a permit? It's not a commercial production, right? If it's on public property, they will have that information. Light balance and the effect fog has on it is your DPs problem and can't be addressed really outside the actual location.
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Thanks again — that’s super helpful.
The only thing I’m a little unsure about is that one of my scenes takes place in the middle of a cul-de-sac, just outside the garage. It’s a quiet residential street, but that scene requires fog manipulation to get the right atmosphere for the finale.
I want to be respectful of the neighborhood and avoid anyone calling the fire department if they see fog rolling through the street. I will check in with city hall or the local fire department just to let them know what me and my team are doing. I will also inquire about those permits.
I’m keeping the crew small and using handheld fog units, but I’d rather be safe and transparent than have the shoot interrupted.