Massachusetts Filming Laws for Professional Film Producers

Filmmakers frequently bring their professional film projects to other areas of the country. All in order to capture unique locations and the pristine views of areas unknown. Filmmakers that consider bringing their commercial film project to the Bay State are likely to face new rules and regulations. They ensure a legal production that doesn’t result in any civil or criminal penalties. We recommend filmmakers understand these Massachusetts filming laws before they book a shoot in the Bay State.

Massachusetts Two-Party Consent Filming Laws 

Thinking about filming someone in New England without first seeking their consent? Massachusetts recording law specifically states that filmmakers must have two-party consent.

This is to capture a mix of audio and video from a conversation that is taking place between multiple individuals in a private, semi-private, or public location. 

Under the two-party consent filming laws in Massachusetts, filmmakers must seek approval from anyone that they intend to capture video and audio footage from.

Without a written agreement, Massachusetts law allows for a potential criminal case to be brought against any filmmaker that records audio and video without permission from all parties involved.

Are Permits Required to Film in Massachusetts?

The Massachusetts Film Office can assist with permitting throughout the Bay State. While inquiries for film permits to local parks, roads, or other locations throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts should be made to the Mass Film Office.

Individual jurisdictions do happen to handle the local permitting for various cities and towns throughout the state.  

Generally speaking, a permit is necessary for any filmmaking in Massachusetts that takes place on public property. Because smaller towns might have different permitting laws or requirements.

It’s important for you to communicate with local administrators. As well as the film office in order to ensure that you’ve obtained the most appropriate film permit. For any Massachusetts filming laws that might apply to your unique production scenario.

Massachusetts Child Labor Laws for Filmmakers

Massachusetts filming laws that directly pertain to child labor are another important consideration for filmmakers coming into the Bay State.

Restrictions exist on any child labor involved in film productions, especially those that pertain to the hiring of children or minor talent that includes individuals that are under 18 years old. 

Working Hours

Children ages 9 to 15 must follow very specific working guidelines. Including not working more than 7 hours per day. And not having a shift that, including meals, exceed 9 total hours.

Minors in this age category must not work more than 48 hours per week. Although those in the next age group from age 16 to 17 can work up to 9 hours per day and 48 hours per week.

In Summary

Like many of the rules and state laws on filming, Massachusetts filming laws for professional film producers aim largely at providing a safe, and productive film industry environment for all cast, crew, and workers involved.

While you might not initially know all the important Massachusetts filming laws that pertain to your production, with a little research and some due diligence you’ll be able to learn the tricks and important tips of the trade for the task that you’re on.