Top Laws to Know When Filming in Virginia

Filming in Virginia represents a unique opportunity for filmmakers! Especially those that have never had the pleasure of shooting in the Mother of States before. If you’re heading to a shoot? These top laws to know when filming in Virginia are a must for you to know before you arrive. As a rule of thumb, make sure that you are aware of the rules. For those that apply to filmmaking with or without a permit, with or without permission, and other rules is important.

Virginia Laws on Filming Without Permission

One of the most important laws to know when filming in Virginia applies to consent. Can you film someone in Virginia without their permission?

According to state statutes, Virginia law states that filmmakers can record a conversation as long as one party consents to the recording. This is known as the one-party consent law. It is the law for several states throughout the U.S.

Local Laws

This means that as long as a filmmaker has permission from one person that is holding a conversation, even in a private or semi-private setting, the filming is acceptable.

However, there are local laws regarding the right of publicity. Which generally state that a person has a right to decide how their image is commercially distributed or profited from. Therefore if you intend to film in a commercial setting, release forms are a must!

Virginia Laws on Child Labor

If you’re considering the use of minor talent in your filmmaking while you’re in Virginia? You won’t face many challenges as the law is concerned.

Virginia regulates minor employment. But child labor provisions do not apply to children working as actors or performers in motion picture or television productions.

This means that the child labor laws that Virginia imposes are not the same when it comes to filming minors.

If you have specific questions about minor talent in Virginia? Working with the Virginia film office is the first step you should take to determine the appropriate steps toward establishing the proper rules and requirements of your set while you’re there. 

Virginia Permitting Laws

One of the biggest concerns a filmmaker will have when coming to Virginia to film is whether or not a film permit is necessary for their shoot. Film permits must be applied for in advance of the production and should never be put off to the last minute.

According to local laws to know when filming in Virginia, you should be prepared to apply for a filming permit. If you will be shooting within public parks, streets, or in areas where your filming might interrupt the public in any way.

Each city has its own local rules on permits. And most will require a permit for any type of commercial filmmaking to take place. Therefore it’s best to know before you go and be ready.