Who Signs a Location Release Form?

A location release form, otherwise possibly referred to as a location release agreement, is documentation. This grants the film crew and any cast or talent involved in the production. With permission to be present at, and to film at, the location. Filming on location is something that virtually any film crew will encounter during the course of a production and, without a signed location release form, there could be potential consequences (legal or civil) which may arise from the use of footage filmed without permission. Understanding how important these location release forms are, you’re probably wondering, “Who signs a location release form?”

What is a Location Release Form?

The location release form represents a written document which outlines the permissions granted to the film crew and other parties of the production in regards to using, and filming, a location.

The location release form is generally produced by either the film crew or the location owner. And clearly outlines details including who is has permission to be on the premises, how long they may be present.

And whether the footage filmed on the premises may be included in a future production.

Responsibilities

Obtaining the permission to film a location, and to use the footage, is a serious responsibility. In fact, without permission to film the location or permission to use the location footage?

Both legal and civil lawsuits could ultimately be brought forth against the producer or the production crew. This is why a signed location release form is so important.

What’s Included in the Location Release Form?

As we navigate the answer to a common question, “Who signs a location release form?” It makes sense to address the key elements that should be included in a location release.

The standard location release form is going to include the following major components:

  • The names of the parties involved include the production company’s name and the property owner’s name.
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  • Location address where filming will take place.
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  • The dates that the filming will take place and dates that cast or crew may use the property.
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  • Whether there is compensation to the location owner, and if so the terms of the compensation agreement.
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  • A release that clearly states the owner of the property releases the production team from any loss, liability, costs, damages or claims.
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  • Whether or not any alterations to the property may be made.
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  • A detailed statement of where, when, and how the footage from the location can be used.
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  • Details that assign rights to the footage that is captured at the location during that time period.
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  • Signatures.

Who Signs a Location Release Form?

So whose signatures are necessary? The signature field of the location release form is going to have a place for the production company to sign and for the property owner’s to sign.

In the event that the property owners are unavailable to sign the location release, an authorized representative that has legal authority to sign the location release form will do so.

An Authorized representative from the production company is responsible for signing the location release. 

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