Film location permits in Des Plaines, IL — sometimes called film shoot permits, production permits, or filming authorizations — cover commercial photography, video shoots, and motion picture production.
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.
Productions filming in the public right-of-way, on city property, or at scale requiring traffic control or special services in Des Plaines must obtain a film/special-event permit through the City Manager's office. Application typically requires production details, locations, dates and times, equipment list, personnel count, traffic control plan if needed, and proof of liability insurance (typically $1M minimum, with the City named as additional insured). Permit fees vary by scope; police, fire, and public works overtime are billed at cost. Productions on private property generally do not require a city permit unless they involve street closures, equipment in the right-of-way, or after-hours generator/lighting use. The Illinois Film Office provides statewide tax credits and resources. Productions involving drones must additionally comply with FAA Part 107 and O'Hare LAANC airspace requirements.
Filming without permit when required: $500-$1,000 per day plus restitution for city services. Blocking right-of-way without authorization: separate $500+ citation.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Des Plaines, IL
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