City Guide Filming in Louisville, KY
Production Permit Fees
- Permit Application Fee: $40 non-refundable
Minimum Insurance
- Commercial General Liability of at least $1,000,000 per incident / $2,000,000 aggregate
- Auto Liability or policy forms adequate to protect the interest or liability of the film producer
- Add Louisville Metro to all commercial General Liability policies as an additional insured.
Additional Permits
- Police and Fire Requirements: Where needed, organized through Louisville Metro Office of Special Events.
Discounts
About Louisville
Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), the University of Louisville, Muhammad Ali (the boxer), the Kentucky Derby, Kindred Healthcare, and Humana — what do all of these have in common? If your guess is Louisville, you are spot on! Louisville is the birthplace of many good ideas, a remarkable city that stands as the largest of all in Kentucky, holds the status of the nominal seat of Jefferson County, and is among the most heavily populated cities in the USA.
The city has also hosted production crews for some of the most iconic titles to have made it on the Hollywood big screen. The most prominent one is the 1964 masterpiece Goldfinger, which is this day one of the best Bond films ever made and one of Connery’s best works. Other notable titles include The Return of the Living Dead, The Hustler, Demolition Man, Stripes, Elizabethtown, The Insider, and Mom and Dad. Long story short — the city has seen its fair share of action and glory.
The city has an impressive history — named after the French King Louis XVI (who met a gruesome end during the French Revolution), Louisville is among the earliest U.S. cities established to the west of the Appalachians — it was founded in 1778. Naturally, it boasts several reminders of the past, but the cityscape is also one of massive urbanization, making Louisville a bustling metropolis buzzing with activity day and night. The filming scene is also very welcoming, although it would benefit all film productions to thoroughly go through the filming guidelines in Louisville before starting the project in the city. But when selecting the best location to film your scenes, you have nothing to worry about; Giggster will take care of everything for you. We will help you find some of the most impressive filming destinations in Louisville and nearby areas!
Do I Need a Filming Permit in Louisville?
All film productions must first reach out to the Louisville Metro Office of Special Events (OSE) to be sure of whether they’ll need a permit or not, with only two exceptions where you can film without one — either if you’re filming on private property or if you’re filming in public under the First Amendment Rights guaranteed by the US Constitution (filming a protest, rally, or walk, for instance). Other than that, per the filming guidelines in Louisville, all filming on public property or the use of the public property for activities related to filming (including reserved parking for the film crew) is only allowed with permits.
Filming space
Any filming in public space (ask for the status of the site beforehand to be sure) Any filming in a residential area
Filming in a commercial
Filming in a commercial or business district
Filming activity
Any filming activity that requires blocking streets, lanes, sidewalks, or road, requires metered parking
Filming at night
Filming at night with the help of outdoor lighting, especially in residential areas
Permission of the Office
If the permission of the Office of Public Works is needed for some temporary setup
Use of any city property
The use of any city property or any intellectual property claimed by the city for filming
Permit Management in Louisville
Louisville Metro Office of Special Events (OSE)
The Louisville Metro Office of Special Events (OSE) is the main permit-issuing body in the city, engaging filmmakers and other stakeholders to create a one-stop solution for all involved. You can count on their diligent staff to do most of the heavy lifting for you, but film productions should fulfill certain obligations to acquire filming permits in Louisville. You will be obligated to provide a list of the locations you intend to use in your film, the schedule of your film production activities, a detailed site map, additional resources for street closures, traffic redirection resources, and so on.
Once you fill out the permit application form and attach all the relevant documentation, including the evidence for insurance coverage, you can submit your application to the office for a $40 fee. Credit cards are accepted only when you submit the application in person at the OSE office. The OSE will liaise with the local departments, including the police and fire prevention departments, to ensure that things go smoothly for you, and if you have fulfilled all the requirements for getting a film permit in the city, you will be good to go. Apply at least seven days before your filming schedule to avoid trouble.
And if unsure about anything, you can contact the Louisville Metro Office of Special Events (OSE) at 502-572-3533.
What Insurance Do I Need in Louisville?
Film production companies who need permits to film on-location in Louisville must provide proof of insurance that meets the city’s requirements. The insurance step is critical because timely insurance submission is required to avoid filming permit delays.
Before a film permit can be issued, Louisville requires all film production companies to provide proof of insurance. Therefore, you must ensure that your insurance covers the following:
If you can’t meet any of these requirements, you’ll need to explain in writing why you can’t meet the requirement to the Office. They will determine if the shoot can go ahead without the necessary insurance.
Note that these requirements are minimum requirements. Larger and more complex shoots may require additional insurance which will be determined by the Office.
What Kind of Filming Locations Are Available in Louisville?
Besides the generally relaxed filming laws in Louisville, Louisville also offers a heap of filming locations, both indoors and outdoors. The Massive Photo Studio in Jeffersontown features a fully furnished interior, flooded with light and colors, and offers the perfect contrast for every angle. Or you can go for the Industrial Production Studio, with a themed appearance and built-in sets for filming and photography. But if the industrial theme is not what you’re after, the Fun and Unique Japanese Inspired Bar may be viable — it is tech-friendly and emanates a calm and serene vibe.
The Soul Food Kitchen in Louisville is another excellent option for those looking for a natural background for their film production — the atmosphere feels lifelike, and the colors contrast perfectly. However, if you’re looking for a purpose-built facility, then the Protools HD Recording Studio won’t fail to impress you with its premium sound room and more. To natural options, why not travel back in time to look for what you might find interesting? Perhaps the Victorian Carriage House on Cherokee Park might tickle your fancy – it has an antique look and feel that adds value to every frame and is for both the exterior and the interior.
Traveling back to the present time from here, we can stop at the end of the nineteenth century and look at the 1890 House in Urban Bourbon Country. The name says it all — its theme, as with the one before it, is unparalleled and not comparable with most other filming locations in Louisville or beyond. In the twenty-first century, we have a Modern Farmhouse with Lake View, as the name suggests, delivering an atmosphere and feel that looks perfect for a horror/slasher-type film. Lastly, we have the Demoed Victorian Mansion, which is a bit gritty but offers a unique appearance and theme that many may find perfect for their film project.
Louisville has you covered for indoor/outdoor filming locations and past/present themes; it is virtually impossible not to find what you need for your film project!
Special Requirements in Louisville
Filming In Louisville Municipal School District
To film in the Louisville Municipal School District, you first need to reach out to the administration with your proposal and secure their express permission for your filming activity. You'll have to do so at least a month in advance (the best time to schedule your film production would be during the summer vacations) to maximize your chance of getting your application approved. Once that is done, you can reach out to the OSE as you would in a regular case. The insurance requirements for the school district are $1 million in general liability plus $2 million aggregate.
Filming In Muhammad Ali International Airport
The Louisville Regional Airport Authority manages the iconic Muhammad Ali International Airport, named after the world-famous boxing champion. You'll have to get their permission for any filming activity in the airport (most likely, you won't get exclusive access); once you get their approval and fulfill their insurance requirements (at least $1 million in general liability and property damage, though it can be higher), you can film here. Please note that all of this applies only to film productions; you are free to do solo travel vlogs here – it’s a free country after all!
Filming In Louisville Waterfront Park Public Dock
The Louisville Waterfront Park Public Dock is one of the many in the region and is managed by the Louisville Waterfront. You’ll have to get their consent and provide at least $1 million in general liability before you can get a film permit (from the OSE) for filming here
Filming In Jefferson Memorial Forest
Wilderness Louisville handles much of what goes around in the Jefferson Memorial Forest – they are a non-profit organization committed to raising funds for the preservation of the forest. It is best to forward your request (to the local government) through them, and once you get approval, you can start filming. Also, if you hire some of their staff members, you’ll be supporting the preservation of the forest.
Filming In A Private Property
If you’re filming in a privately owned property and are not demanding access to any public facilities (such as parking or street closure) then you don’t need a filming permit from the OSE. However, you do need to get the property owner to sign a filming permission letter for you.
Timing For Film Productions
Normally, the filming timings are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. – and this applies to all film production-related activities, including setting up the stage. But you can get an extension if your case necessitates filming beyond these allowed hours. Reach out to the OSE with your proposal in this regard – but do keep in mind that this should not come at the expense of the residents' or business owners' comfort.
What Does it Cost to Film in Louisville?
Additional Fees
A Louisville film permit comes with various fees depending on your location and the scope of your production activities. Your film production coordinator can work with you to meet your production's needs while keeping these fees to a minimum. The application processing fee for motion photography with the Louisville Metro Office of Special Events is $40. A single permit typically covers film production activities for more than one location. The application fee for a film permit in Louisville is non-refundable. It is forfeited if a project is canceled or the film permit application is denied. Also, this fee does not include any other agency fees that may be required to complete the application. Any outstanding fees from a previous project, including fines, penalties, and agreed-upon damage restitution, must be paid before a newly submitted Film Permit application will be reviewed or approved. Within seven days of the completion of the project, you will receive an invoice for any fees assessed after the permit is issued. So be sure to budget for everything you'll need to film in Louisville to avoid getting your application rejected or breaking any of the city's rules.
All film productions incur other fees and costs, Besides site rental and assorted filming expenses, determined by the OSE for each case. However, the film permit application fee (non-refundable) is fixed.
Geographical Jurisdiction of Louisville?
Louisville is the capital of Kentucky and is one of the most populated cities in the U.S. The city was founded in 1778. With the nearby Falls of Ohio serving as the only significant impediment to river traffic between the Gulf of Mexico and the upper Ohio River, the settlement began as a shipping site.
It was the origin of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad, which stretched into a 6,000-mile network that spanned 13 states. Today, Louisville is famous for being home to boxer Muhammad Ali, the University of Louisville, the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and several other attractions.
Following the 2003 city-county merger, Louisville's borders and those of Jefferson County have been the same. The total population of the City of Louisville as of the 2020 United States census was 782,969. The overall population of 633,045 includes other incorporated places and self-government towns within the City of Louisville and is the population given in most national rankings and publications.
Outreach in Louisville
If you want to close a street or a populated area, notify the businesses and citizens affected no later than a few days before the shoot. If the request is granted, the notification letter you send out should include the closing date, the reason for the shutdown, your film production company's name, and detailed information about the closure, including diversions and schedule. You must also include a copy of the notification with your film permit application.
You may also need to contact the City Council District, Business Improvement District, and local Community Board. Reaching out to these organizations makes your film production run more smoothly and connects it to a long-term plan for improving the lives of the community's residents and businesses.
Community Management in Louisville
The support of the community residents is required for film production to succeed in their neighborhood. They often have plenty to say about ongoing film production activities in their area. They are assets, and with more assistance from the residents, the better for you.
The cooperation of the businesses in the area with your production company is just as important as those of the residents. Business leaders wield enormous power in any town, and collaboration is required and signifies that the community supports local production. On the other hand, if the business community is dissatisfied, elected officials will undoubtedly hear about it, which may impact their overall support.
At the absolute least, the business community must believe that the filming activity is not interfering with their operations. This is a win-win situation when businesses benefit from a production's presence through increased sales, a location fee, or overall beneficial exposure. It is up to you to help them understand these things.
Conclusion
Louisville continues to be a popular film and TV production location. The city is one of the most popular locations for film production. It has created cutting-edge studio facilities, a talent pool, competitive incentives, and film-project-welcoming communities. However, it is not just these factors that draw these filmmakers. The massive amount of history, culture, beautiful landscapes, and awe-inspiring architecture combine to create the perfect cinematic storm.
The film industry in Louisville has also aided the local economy by creating jobs and bringing money back into the city. This is a significant financial incentive to film. Your film production company will receive tax credits, attracting many film crews to the state eager to save money.
In addition, getting a film permit does not have to be challenging. If you keep updated on requirements and apply for authorizations as soon as possible, you will get approved quickly and with the fewest headaches. Getting a permit is relatively simple in the city as it is designed to ensure that film productions and local communities have a mutually beneficial relationship now and in the future.
Hopefully, these Louisville filming guidelines have helped you determine how to approach film production in the City of Louisville. With less to worry about from a permitting perspective, you’ll have more time to focus on the shoot.