The Chicago Film Office offers reduced or waived permit fees for accredited college and university student productions. Students still need a permit for public property filming and must show enrollment, faculty approval, and standard liability insurance.
The Chicago Film Office, part of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), administers permits under MCC 4-156-200 and reduces fees for accredited student productions. Students must submit proof of enrollment, a faculty advisor letter, a script or treatment, and a Certificate of Insurance naming the City as additional insured at $1 million general liability. Standard student permits cover non-commercial films under five days with limited equipment and small crews. Productions exceeding two cars on the street, requiring police traffic control, or using firearms or stunts must follow regular commercial permit rules. The Film Office issues permits within five business days when complete, and may waive fees for unpaid work entirely.
Filming on city property without a permit results in cease-and-desist orders, $200 to $1,000 fines under MCC 4-156-220, and possible blacklisting from future Film Office permits across all schools.
See how Chicago's student filming rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.