Location Permits: Des Plaines vs Oak Lawn
How do location permits rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Oak Lawn, IL?
Des Plaines and Oak Lawn have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Commercial film, TV, and photo productions in Des Plaines using public property, requiring street closures, or involving multiple personnel and equipment require a film/special-event permit from the City Manager's office. Insurance and fees apply.
View full Des Plaines rules →Oak Lawn, IL
Cook County
Commercial filming on public property or rights-of-way in Oak Lawn requires a Village film permit with insurance and coordination. Filming on private property with owner consent generally does not require a Village permit.
View full Oak Lawn rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Oak Lawn |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Office | City Manager | - |
| Insurance | $1M minimum typical | COI required |
| Lead Time | 2-4 weeks recommended | - |
| City Services | Billed at cost | - |
| Drones | FAA Part 107 + LAANC | - |
| Village Permit | - | Required for public property |
| Park Filming | - | Park District permit |
| Drone Filming | - | FAA + LAANC |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Do I need a permit to shoot on a Des Plaines street?
Yes. Commercial filming on public property or that requires street closures, traffic control, or city services requires a film/special-event permit.
Do I need a permit for a small private-property shoot?
Generally no, if the production is small, contained on private property, and does not impact the right-of-way. Confirm with the City Manager's office.
Are there Illinois tax incentives for filming?
Yes. The Illinois Film Office administers a 30% tax credit for qualifying productions. Apply through the state office before principal photography.
Oak Lawn FAQ
Do I need a permit to film on my own business property?
Generally not for the Village, though you must still comply with signage, noise, and traffic rules. Activities affecting the public sidewalk or street trigger permit requirements.
What insurance do I need?
A certificate of insurance naming the Village as additional insured, with limits typically in the $1M-$5M range depending on scope. Confirm exact requirements with the Village Manager's office.
Can I film in an Oak Lawn park?
Yes, with an Oak Lawn Park District permit separate from the Village film permit. Coordination with Park District staff covers reservations, fees, and any resident-notification requirements.
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