Chicago Film Office
COVID-19 Update
Based on Chicago's key health metrics, the city is currently in Phase 4 (Gradually Resume) – allowing additional businesses and public amenities to open with limited capacities and appropriate safeguards. Although progress has been made in order to move to phase four, all residents should continue to abide by important guidance including: physically distancing and wearing a face covering; limiting non-business, social gatherings to 50 persons for indoor events and 100 for outdoors; staying at home if you are considered vulnerable, feel ill or have come into contact with someone with COVID-19; and getting tested if you have symptoms. Please refer to the Chicago Department of Public Heath’s website, chicago.gov/coronavirus, for the latest local updates on the response to COVID-19. The Chicago Film Office is issuing Permits for Filming. All producers are required to follow the Restore Illinois Film Production Guidelines and the City of Chicago's Be Safe Film and Television Production Guidelines. For additional guidelines for commercial productions and photoshoots, refer to the Association of Independent Commercial Producers (AICP) Recommendations. Some city services and city property may not be available. |
The Chicago Film Office, a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, leads the city’s effort to attract and enhance the production of feature films, television series, commercials, documentaries and all forms of local screen entertainment. For filmmakers, it is a one-stop liaison for all City of Chicago production needs including permits, city services, and logistical support.
Audiences around the world travel Chicago’s streets through its portrayal in filmed entertainment. These compelling images help to generate tourism, promote international business, and establish a new global awareness of our landscape and culture. Adding to local favorites Ferris Buellers Day Off and The Blues Brothers, recent productions of Transformers: Dark of the Moon, Contagion, The Dark Knight, and Public Enemies as well as numerous television series have led to Chicago being ranked among the most respected production centers in the country.
Since 1980, more than 1,100 feature films and television productions have shot in Chicago contributing $2 billion in local revenue. Chicago attracts hundreds of commercials and photo shoots each year that are produced for both national and international clients.This growth industry provides quality jobs for thousands of Chicagoans and creates opportunities for hundreds of hometown businesses. This success would not have been possible without tremendous community support. Thanks to the spirited cooperation of residents, businesses and civic leaders, Chicago is truly a remarkable city for filmmaking.
For Filmmakers:
| Permits For Filming | City Services & Rates | Current Production Information | Tax Incentives | Student Films |
| Claudia Cassidy Theater | Resources | FAQs |
For Film Lovers:
| Film Festivals/Events Calendar | Millennium Park Summer Film Series | Filmed In Chicago |
Facts
Department:
Additional Information
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Contact InformationChicago Film Office Kwame Amoaku, Director Betsey Grais, Deputy Director John Hundrieser, Policy Analyst Thavary Krouch, Independent Film Coordinator Tim Olson, Cultural Affairs Coordinator
2020 Holidays/Office Closed:
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