Filming in Tooele County

Tooele County offers filmmakers diverse, cinematic landscapes – from the Bonneville Salt Flats and rugged mountains to historic towns, desert vistas, and motorsports facilities. Its proximity to Salt Lake City, accessible locations, film-friendly communities, and varied scenery make it a versatile and cost-effective production destination.

Contact the Tooele County film liaison to discuss your project, locations, schedule, crew size, and potential impacts. You’ll receive guidance on the required application, insurance, fees, and approvals. Submit materials early, especially when filming on public roads, parks, facilities, or protected lands.

Notable movies filmed at the Bonneville Salt Flats include Independence Day, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End, Independence Day: Resurgence, and The World’s Fastest Indian. The salt flats’ vast, otherworldly landscape has also appeared in numerous commercials, documentaries, and television productions.

Many Tooele County filming locations are within 30–60 minutes of Salt Lake City International Airport. Tooele City is approximately 25-30 minutes away, while remote West Desert locations, including the Bonneville Salt Flats, generally require 90 minutes of travel.

Yes. Tooele County qualifies as rural Utah. Productions may seek a 25% post-production incentive by spending at least $1 million in Utah and conducting 75% of production days in rural counties. Apply before principal photography; approval depends on eligibility, project merits, and available funding.

Contact the appropriate BLM field office to determine whether a filming permit is required. Commercial productions generally submit Form 2920-1, a detailed activity description, location map, applicable processing and rental fees, and proof of liability insurance. Additional environmental review, monitoring, or bonding may be required