City of Lake Forest, IL

A Commercial Film application is required when there is commercial use of City-owned property (streets, right-of ways, and public buildings), commercial use of private property which may affect adjacent public or private property, equipment and personnel in the filming of movies, tv shows, commercials, and related activities.

Any party proposing filming within City Limits must submit a completed application packet fifteen (15) business days prior to the proposed start date for filming; however, there are additional requirements prior to submittal, based upon the filming classification: 

• Class A Filming Permits require a Pre-Application Meeting with the Community Development Department at least twenty-five (25) business days prior to proposed filming dates, and before filing an application for filming.  
• Class B & Class C Permits require an advanced notice via written communication of the forthcoming application. 

To view a copy of the City's Commercial Filming Policy, please click here.

Commercial Film Application & Submittal Requirements

Classifications of Filming Permits, Requirements and Fees: 

• Class A Filming Permit - Defined as any commercial filming activity that requires any one of the following: (1) the complete closure of a public road or pedestrian walkway for any period of time; (2) City personnel support in excess of twelve (12) hours; or (3) disruption or interruption of public use of a public building, property or facility during regular operating hours.
  • $150 non-refundable application fee
  • $475 permit fee
  • $1,000 refundable security deposit
  • Certificate of Insurance - $1,000,000 general aggregate, naming The City of Lake Forest as certificate holder and as an additional insured 

• Class B Filming Permit - Defined as any commercial filming activity that requires any one of the following: (1) the partial closure of a public road or pedestrian walkway, where public use is restricted, but not completely obstructed, for any period of time; (2) partial use of a public building, property or facility that does not require a closure to the public; or (3) City personnel support of twelve (12) hours or less.
  • $100 non-refundable application fee
  • $375 permit fee
  • $500 refundable security deposit
  • Certificate of Insurance - $1,000,000 general aggregate, naming The City of Lake Forest as certificate holder and as an additional insured 

• Class C Filming Permit - Defined as any commercial filming activity that (1) does not require the closure or limitation on the use of any public roads, pedestrian walkways, or use of public property, facilities and/or buildings; and (2) does not require the use of any City personnel or services.
  • $50 non-refundable application fee
  • $125 permit fee
  • Certificate of Insurance - $1,000,000 general aggregate, naming The City of Lake Forest as certificate holder and as an additional insured

Questions?

For additional information, please contact the Community Development Department at 847-810-3504.