How to Get Clearance for Film

Determining how to get clearance for film is a unique process which focuses heavily on acquiring the required permissions relative to the film production. Each aspect of film clearance may include a variety of underlying results. Including necessary clearance on the film set, talent, music and stock footage, computer programs, posters, art and various other creative works. If you’ve never faced a situation in which you were required to figure out how to get clearance for a film, there’s a good chance that these formalities have not come to mind – yet.

At Beverly Boy Productions, we recognize the value of obtaining clearance for a film. As well as the steps involved in reviewing the appropriate material for production. To help you figure out how to get clearance for a film, we’ve put the following list together. 

Types of Film Clearances

Before you can possibly negotiate or otherwise request clearance for a film project, it’s going to be important that you understand the different types of film clearances.

Figuring out how to get clearance for film begins with your understanding of what each clearance represents and means. Talk with an attorney or other legal counsel prior to determining your film clearances. 

You might have to review any of the following film clearances:

• Property clearances –  which include things like music, books, and stock footage.
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• People clearances – which include things like releases from people and talent that will appear in the film.
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• Location clearances – which include things like film permits for the city and municipality in which the filmmaking takes place. 

How to Get Clearance for Film

Figuring out how to get clearance for film is definitely a process of researching the different types of film clearances as well as paperwork. Many ways exist to obtain film clearances.

Generic forms can be filled out and requests can also be manually formatted. Ask an attorney to assist you in the process of tailoring the clearances that you require for the appropriate documentation that is to be obtained.

For example, if you’re trying to obtain a release for music, you can check EMG Music Clearance for the opportunity to use music in your film for a fee.

DIY clearance applications are available via the website. But we do recommend you consult with an attorney in advance for your own protection.

Paying for Clearances

Once you’ve found the appropriate clearances for your project, you’re going to have to pay for them.

Clearances, including property clearances, location clearances, and people clearances for filmmaking are going to have various costs involved.

Be ready to pay for processing. Including fees associated with the type of license you are requesting as well as the individual type of work involved. 

Plan in Advance

Getting clearance for a film requires that you begin the process well in advance of when your license is required.

Make sure that you request the appropriate clearance at least 10 days advance. And that you prepare for a longer turnaround time for some forms of permission.

The total time to obtain clearance and negotiate clearance agreements may vary, but in most cases will be at least a couple of weeks.

The Takeaway

As you can see, learning how to get clearance for film is an important focused aspect of the filmmaking process which requires a lot of communication and planning.

Before you move forward, make sure that you’re prepared for licenses, copyrighted material, and the associated other crew needs.