How to Get Permission to Film in the U.S. Capitol
As an author, you might be pleasantly surprised if a production company were to approach you with the idea of producing your book into a movie. The authors of copyrighted books often give permission to filmmakers to produce adaptations of their book on film, but at what cost? How much do book authors receive for film rights on average?
FILMING AT THE CAPITOL
According to the United States Capitol Police various activities require permits if you intend to film in the U.S. Capitol Grounds. Commercial filming and photography will require a permit.
To obtain a film permit, applicants should first familiarize themselves with the guidelines for conducting events at the Capitol.
WHICH INCLUDES:
- Maintaining and not blocking any and all accessible routes for pedestrians or those with disabilities.
- Avoiding prohibited areas including those inside Congressional Buildings, on the steps to the U.S. Capitol, the steps of any other building on Capitol Grounds, any area that is closed or restricted for official use, roadways which are used for vehicular traffic, and any areas outlined as prohibited on the U.S. Capitol Grounds Demonstration Areas Map.
- Ensuring the safety of the people, businesses, and visitors of the area.
- Not interfering with the orderly conduct of Congressional Business.
APPLYING FOR A PERMIT
As you’re navigating how to get permission to film in the U.S. Capitol, the next big step is to obtain a permit.
Applications for a film permit may be obtained in person at the U.S. Capitol Police Special Events Section between the hours of 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday, by fax at (202) 228-2429.
OR BY MAIL AT THE U.S. CAPITOL POLICE SPECIAL EVENTS CENTER LOCATED AT:
U.S. Capitol Police Special Events Section Room
102, USCP Headquarters
119 D Street NE
Washington, DC 20510
APPLY AHEAD OF TIME
Finally, applications should be submitted no less than 10 days in advance of the activity to ensure processing. It is best to apply well in advance so that there are no potential issues with obtaining your film permit for the times, and days, for which you intend to film at the Capitol.
The U.S. Capitol Police will accept permit applications up to 1 full year in advance – so plan accordingly.
Once you’ve obtained your written approval to film at the U.S. Capitol be sure to follow all rules and regulations list in the Guidelines and that you follow any rules given with your permit.
All in all, the entire process is really quite simple. It just takes a bit of planning in advance to ensure you’re ahead of the game.
