I will be shooting somewhere in NYC for just one afternoon location hasn't been decided yet. Based on the info from nygov website do I need a permit? I'll be using just one video camera (Sony FS700) on a tripod.My wife will assit me and I hired two actors. No additional equipment cables light etc will be used. Made in NY - Mayor's Office of Film, Theatre & Broadcasting - About (http://www.nyc.gov/html/film/html/permits/permit_required_fee.shtml)
here is a quote from their website.

"When a permit is required
Permit Required: $300 application fee applies
Equipment or vehicles are used or the person filming asserts exclusive use of City property.
Insurance is required for this permit Equipment does not include hand-held devices (such as hand-held film, still, or television cameras or video cameras) or tripods used to support such cameras."

From the website: A permit is not required for filming that uses hand-held cameras or tripods and does not assert exclusive use of City property. Standing on a street, walkway of a bridge, sidewalk, or other pedestrian passageway while using a hand-held device and not otherwise asserting exclusive use of City property is not an activity that requires a permit.

Why don't you just call up the film office, describe exactly what you intend to do, and ask 'em what you need.

On the left coast, it is common to shoot quickly, efficiently, quietly, and not get caught. Small camera (aren't they all?) will help here. Any lighting equipment is a dead giveaway, and will get a cop to stop and ask for your permit. If you can get away with not having one, it is easier to skip it.

I always shoot in stealth mode and never had a problem however for this project I'm paying the actors and renting some lenses so I don't want to worry about being caught. Today I scouted the area and found a good location at a park. I went to the park's website and downloaded a form to fill out. They will decide if I need a permit or not. thanks everyone.