Must Know Filmmaking Laws in Illinois

If you’re considering a film in the Prairie State, it’s going to be very important to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations that surround filmmaking in the area. Check out these must know filmmaking laws in Illinois before you plan or schedule a film shoot in Illinois.

Whether you’ll be filming in Chicago or any other major city in the state of Illinois. You’re going to want to make sure that you’re prepared to follow all local laws and restrictions. 

Laws on Film Permits

The state of Illinois requires a film permit for those who intend to film in various public locations throughout the state. Permits are NOT provided by the Illinois Film Office.

But they can provide you with details on whom you should contact for a local film permit that will be suitable for production.

Illinois Film Office

Permits are typically authorized by the respective municipality in which you will be filming.

Therefore you’ll want to communicate with the Illinois Film Office, or the local city film office for the municipality in which you’re planning your film shoot to obtain the proper film permit before you begin.

Film Related Tax Exemptions

The State of Illinois provides several tax exemptions for filmmakers that are interested in bringing their productions to the Prairie State.

Not only do productions that maintain hotel occupancy for 30 consecutive days or more receive an exemption from the state Hotel Occupancy Tax of 11.9%.

Filmmakers also may qualify for the Illinois Film Tax Credit for additional incentives to filmmakers that meet the following requirements:

• Have receipts and financial materials that are processed by a CPA.
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• Spend at least 100K in Illinois Production Spending for a project that is at least 30 minutes.
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• Spend at least $50K in Illinois Production Spend for a project that is under 30 minutes.
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• Uses an Illinois vendor which provides goods and services to the applicant.

Follow up with the Illinois Film Office to learn more about the Illinois Film Production Services Tax Credit Act or for additional details.

Child Labor Laws

Understanding the filmmaking laws in Illinois surrounding child labor or minor talent is incredibly important for a filmmaker that is considering a production in the state.

Individual rules that apply to minor talent are much different than those for adult filmmakers.

Minors that are working on film productions in Illinois must:

• Be supervised by a parent or guardian.
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• Have a meal break every 5 hours that is at least 30 minutes long.
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• Work between the hours of 7am and 7pm.
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• Not work more than 6 consecutive days.

In Summary

Before considering filmmaking in Illinois, make sure you’re familiar with the individual filmmaking laws in Illinois. As well as how they apply to your production. This will prevent you from having any potential legal complications when you’re filming in the Prairie State.