City Guide Filming in Salt Lake City, UT
Production Permit Fees
- Filming Permit Fee: $121
- Reduced Permit Fee: $50
Minimum Insurance
- General Liability
- Worker’s Compensation:
- Automobile Liability
- Watercraft Liability Insurance
- Aviation Insurance Coverage:
- UAS/Drone Insurance:
- Product Liability Insurance:
- Liquor Liability Insurance
Additional Permits
Discounts
About Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is the capital of Utah and also happens to be the most densely populated city in the state. Featuring a semi-arid climate and a grid-designed cityscape with a decent blend of greenery and tall buildings, the city presents a unique charm and atmosphere that has not gone unnoticed by filmmakers from Hollywood. Many cinematic features have been filmed here; some examples include Yellowstone, SLC Punk, High School Musical: The Musical - The Series, The Searchers, Hereditary, Butch Cassidy And The Sundance Kid, Dumb and Dumber, Con Air, High School Musical (The Film), The Night Clerk, and The Sandlot. The city presents a powerful aura that seems flawless in every frame; the success and acclaim bagged by the few names mentioned earlier are a clear indicator of how good production and a good location can blend into a magical concoction that keeps the viewers glued to their screens.
It’s not just filmmakers who appreciate this unique appeal. Salt Lake City is a popular tourist destination as well. People from all over the US and beyond find much to do here – visiting outdoor recreation spots and skiing resorts are the two most favorite activities of all the options available. Other than this, the city’s welcoming culture plus the many educational institutions that dot the area are the perfect attractions for many, even from distant places; the University of Utah is one prime example of the latter. And there’s a saltwater lake nearby too (which gave the city its name); though it has faced some water level drops due to climate change, it continues to mesmerize and amaze the visitors. All of this is bound to attract filmmakers like you to the city in scores – Giggster is your number one choice for picking all the finest filming locations in SLC and nearby areas!
But before you grab your gear and crew, let’s take a brief dive into the filming guidelines in Salt Lake City.
Do I Need a Filming Permit in Salt Lake City?
Filming on public property in Salt Lake City is only allowed for crews with a filming permit issued by the relevant authorities. The main permit issuing office in Salt Lake City is the Salt Lake City Special Events Office, which is a subsidiary of the Utah Film Commission – however, the latter does not issue permits on its own but instead hooks up productions with local subsidiaries, such as the Salt Lake City Special Events Office which then issue permits. Do keep in mind that filming permits are only needed when a production crew of more than four individuals is part of the project. A single filming permit, as per the filming guidelines in Salt Lake City, allows film productions to shoot at up to three different locations. You’ll need to pay extra for more locations – $100 per three extra locations.
If you're filming on private property, you'll need the express permission of the property owner, in writing, for the filming project. The Salt Lake City Special Events Office only deals with permits for public spaces, not private ones. You’re also bound to submit your filming permit application no less than a full month (30 days) in advance to avoid any troubles. If it is any later than that, reach out to the focal person from the Salt Lake City Special Events Office to be sure that your application won’t be rejected or delayed.
Pyrotechnic Permits
if your film script includes explosives and similar fire-based special effects
Animal Control Permits
if your script involves the filming of animals, especially those which can be potentially dangerous
Permits For Street Closures
the name is pretty self-explanatory, although this is more of a written permission than an actual type of permit
Student/Non-Profit Filming Permit
these permits are offered at comparatively lower rates as compared to normal ones
Other
Other permits may also be needed, such as traffic control permits and restricted parking permits
Permit Management in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City Special Events Office
We’ve already mentioned that the filming laws in Salt Lake City require all film production crews consisting of more than four (but not four exactly) individuals, including the actors/performers, filming on public property, to get filming permits. This only applies to public spaces, and you can initiate the film permit application process online via the Salt Lake City Special Events Portal, which is ultra-convenient and walks you through the whole process step-by-step. The portal also gives clear indications about the deadline for filing your application which is a month prior to the scheduled filming date (or for any special event).
Do keep in mind that Utah Film Commission, which covers all filming activities in the state, does not issue permits on its own. Also, you don't need any filming permits for using private property for this purpose, but you will need a written (and signed) permission letter from the property owner. Plus, a permit is only needed for production crews of more than 4 individuals, meaning that if you're going for a solo vlog trip to Salt Lake City and wish to film in public spaces, you won’t need a permit for that. However, some restrictions may apply to certain sites. Lastly, if there’s any confusion regarding procuring or managing your film permits (or the number of locations allowed per permit), you can always reach out to the Salt Lake City Special Events Office for more information.
The office will liaise with the local departments as well, as and when needed to facilitate your crew.
What Insurance Do I Need in Salt Lake City?
All film production crews must arrange for suitable insurance coverage before they start filming. This is important because in the event of any accident during any production-related activity, the affected individuals can be compensated for their losses. Though the risk may not seem that high, it is still possible for mishaps to happen, especially when special effects and stunts are involved. While it may not seem important, it is still mandatory for all film productions to be fully insured as per the local requirements before they can get their filming permits. We have listed the basic production insurance requirements in Salt Lake City for your reference, but do keep in mind that most of it depends on the nature of your production project and may be subject to variations accordingly:
On top of all these insurance requirements, you’ll also have to list Salt Lake City as additionally insured for general liability, alongside all the city’s employees, representatives, and officials. The exact wording must be written specifically after consultation with the SLC Special Events Office. Do keep in mind that only general liability insurance coverage is mandatory; the rest only apply when needed, i.e., no need for UAS insurance if you’re not using a drone. The same goes for boats, aircraft, and so on. Also, remember that the insurance coverage you buy must be valid throughout the period you’ll be filming in the city.
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 Salt Lake City?
Now that we’ve taken a brief look at the Salt Lake City filming laws, let’s explore some of the many options you have for filming your next project in Salt Lake City. Besides the public spaces that you can get a permit for, you also have a ton of options in the private niche, both indoor and outdoor, for your project. Private properties like the Fully Renovated 1950s Rambler allow filming on-site without the need for a filming permit from the SLC Special Events Office. You also have options like the Exciting Covered Patio in Salt Lake which features breathtaking views and fine furniture, all tuned to the theme and atmosphere of the place. For something more majestic and stimulating, try the Award Winning Manor Home in SLC, which boasts not only an expansive and luxurious interior but also presents a unique, warm, and welcoming aura.
Similarly, the Arts and Events Center in Salt Lake City also presents a vibrant, vivid, and stimulating atmosphere which will be very visible in every frame of your film project. But if you need an escape from the indoors, why not try the Spacious and Private Outdoor Area in Salt Lake where you can set your stage and everything to your liking and also capture the natural beauty in the background into your camera lens? Going back indoors, you have the Multi-Use Event Venue and Indoor Bar as a perfectly nice option which features ample space and allows for a themed makeover of the space as per your requirements.
To satiate your love for heights and delights, you can also try out the Refreshingly Bright Rooftop Patio Venue, which is open for filming projects as well. But if getting a decent indoor space with a modern sense of style is your concern, then the Contemporary and Stylish Studio in Salt Lake will be more up your alley. Or you may need a formal, discipline-evoking, and somewhat arranged space, like an office for your shoot. If so, then the Spacious Shared Office Spaces on Main will be perfect for you, especially if you want to show the inside of a bank, office, or corporate building.
And here we’ve just scratched the surface…
You can find all sorts of locations for your project, and with hundreds of options available within the city alone, you’re sure to find something perfectly fit for your script.
Special Requirements in Salt Lake City
Filming At The Salt Lake City School District
You can film in the Salt Lake City School District, but you'll first have to reach out to the school administration and submit your permit application for review at least a month in advance. Once the school allows your filming activity, be sure to discuss the further protocol with the SLC Special Events Office before proceeding; you will also have to arrange for general liability coverage of $1,000,000 with a general aggregate of $2,000,000.
Filming At The Great Salt Lake
The Great Salt Lake is managed by the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire & State Lands – you’ll have to reach out to them for a film permit to shoot your motion picture here. Plus, if your script involves the usage of any watercraft, you’ll have to arrange for $1,000,000 in watercraft liability insurance beforehand.
Traffic Control & Restricted Parking Permits
A traffic control permit is needed when you need to block certain routes. You can also get a restricted parking permit from the SLC Transportation Department, but you’ll have to pay depending on the extent of your parking requirements. The office can be reached (for both permits) via phone at 801-535-6630.
Setting Up A Fire Lane
A 20-foot-wide fire lane must be maintained as part of any filming activity setup.
Requirements For Utah Film Commission Filming Incentives
If a film production spends a minimum of $500,000 in Utah, as part of their film production expense, they’ll get up to 25% in cash rebate or tax incentive.
Other
Filming in certain areas is only allowed under some special circumstances, such as only when you've received permission from the administration to film your project on the premises or if you have the necessary insurance coverage to film there. You may also have to reach out to authorities other than the SLC Special Events Office (but not excluding it) for some permits.
What Does it Cost to Film in Salt Lake City?
The thing with miscellaneous fees for filmmakers in Salt Lake City is that much of it depends on when you’re filming and what you agree upon with the SLC Special Events Office. They’ll ask for all the details of your script and then give you an invoice based on that – the rates are not listed on their website, and you’ll instead be billed according to your specific situation. However, based on the filming regulations in Salt Lake City, here’s what you should expect:
Additional Fees
On top of these fees which cover the “basic requirements,” you’ll be given a detailed “Estimate of Cost Recovery” document showing what you need to pay for extra services, such as:
The exact fee structure in this category varies depending on the complexity of the production, but you can reach out to the SLC Special Events Office for a quote in your case.
Geographical Jurisdiction of Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City gets its name from the Great Salt Lake, which borders the city on the northwest, almost surrounding it in that direction. To the south of the city lies the Salt Lake Valley, and moving to the east, you'll find the Wasatch Range. On the opposite side sit the Oquirrh Mountains, which cover the western border of the city’s limits. The city is pretty much encircled by mountains and valleys. Filming At The Great SaltLake The nearby Great Salt Lake, which also gives the name to the city and the region as a whole (Salt Lake Valley) boasts some of the most visually stunning displays in all of the USA. It is managed by the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire & State Lands. To film here, you’ll need a permit from the FFSL, but you don’t have to reach out to them directly. Instead, get in touch with the Utah Film Commission and ask them to hook you up with the focal person here for your convenience. Once you’ve covered all the safety and insurance requirements and paid the permit and assorted fees, you can film here.
Outreach in Salt Lake City
As per the filming regulations in Salt Lake City, if you’re filming in a public space, for instance, a neighborhood park, you'll need to notify all the affected residents and business owners prior to the filming schedule. This only applies when your filming project affects the people around you; otherwise, you need not give any advance notice. However, when you do need to notify the local community, get in touch with the SLC Special Events Office for specific instructions and then do as they say. Your notice letters must clearly state the dates of your filming schedule, the timing of your film shoots, the extent to which your filming will affect the people, alternative routes if you’ve closed certain lanes and roads, and so on.
Community Management in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is only behind Nashville in terms of overall friendliness among the locals, making it the second friendliest city in all of the USA. The people here are generally open-minded and very accepting. Also, since the city is a regular hub for tourists and ski enthusiasts, it is only natural for the people to be kind and welcoming. As far as filming projects are concerned, specifically, the city has seen many production crews come and go, so you should not have much trouble managing your affairs in the city. Plus, if you're filming on private property, you won't have to deal with the local residents as much.
Conclusion
Salt Lake City is not only a very hospitable place to be for tourists pouring in from all over the USA and beyond, but also hosts some of the friendliest people in the country. With numerous cinematic successes tracing their film production efforts to the city, including titles like Yellowstone and High School Musical, the city definitely offers the perfect recipe for success that all filmmakers yearn for. With breathtaking scenery, tons of natural beauty, and a myriad of options to pick from when deciding your filming location, Salt Lake City offers it all, and it offers it so perfectly. On top of all of this, getting filming permits in Salt Lake City is super simple since you don't have to visit offices or fill in endless paperwork, but instead, get to apply via an online portal.