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Permits & Procedures

Behind the scenes of vdo production or video shooting at outdoor location with film crew camera team and movie director.

Permitting procedures were updated in 2023.

Permits are handled through Columbus Rec & Parks Department. To obtain a Special Events permit, start here: https://specialeventapplication.columbus.gov/

A filming guide has also been established and can be found here: https://www.columbus.gov/EventPlanningGuide/, under the Film Permit section.

Please contact Film Columbus for contact information pertaining to filming in cities and counties surrounding Columbus and Franklin County. In some areas, you pay out-of-pocket expenses for street closures and police, but no permit is needed.

Columbus Recreation and Parks Permit Section

columbusrecparks.com
1111 E Broad Street, Columbus, OH, 43205
(614) 645-3300

Notes:

  • Permitting for park usage must be submitted directly to the Parks Department office.
  • Parks and Recreation City Codes may be viewed online (review sections 919.05 – Restrictions & 919.06 – Permits)
  • Park Permits are $25.00

Metro Parks

metroparks.net
Larry Peck Deputy Director
(614) 895-6236

Ohio State Parks

A permit processing fee of $40 will be charged for all approved permits. Additional charges my be required to reimburse the park for costs like security personnel, additional maintenance, and utilities.

To begin the process, contact the individual park manager: https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-odnr/division-parks-watercraft/state-parks-boatin

For Ohio State Parks general information, please call or email:
Melissa White
(614) 265-6568

Child Entertainment Labor Laws Ohio

  • Ohio does not actively regulate Child Entertainment Law.
  • Work Permits: There are no work permits necessary.
  • Work Hours: Minors employed as actors or performers in motion pictures or theatrical productions, or in radio or television productions are exempt from Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) coverage. Therefore, FLSA rules regarding total allowable number of works hours in one day and allowable times of day to work do not apply.
  • U.S. Department of Labor – Compliance Assistance Home Page Educational requirements: No Ohio statutory or regulatory provision dealing directly with this subject was found. If this is a SAG Signatory Production, then the SAG contract provisions will apply.