City Guide Filming in Sioux City, IA
Production Permit Fees
Minimum Insurance
- Workers' Compensation by the Iowa Labor Code
- $1 million General Liability insurance
- Your film production company must list Sioux City as additional insured.
- Depending on the scope of production, you may also need automobile liability, production, location, and equipment insurance.
Additional Permits
- Police and Fire Requirements: Organized through the City Clerk's Office Commission where needed.
Discounts
About Sioux City
Sioux City, IA is home to highly desirable filming locations due to its picturesque scenery. The city offers diverse locations, tax incentives, and a strong presence of industry professionals, making it a desirable destination for indie and major film projects.
The 1989 and 2009 films Children of the Corn were shot in various Iowa locations, such as Sioux City. Both movies, based on Stephen King's horror story, depict a cult of children who believe all adults over 18 must be eliminated, making it enough to discourage anyone from visiting corn fields during the night.
Also, Sioux City has a connection to Hollywood through more than 30 films spanning all genres. Some films and TV shows shot in the city include Bully, Crash Landing: The Rescue of Flight 232, The House I Live In, High & Outside: A Baseball Noir, and Infection.
Sioux City does not require general permits for filming, and many businesses and citizens are excited about the opportunity for productions to shoot in their locations. This has led to various genres, including horror, comedy, drama, and more, being filmed in the city. But before filming in Sioux City, obtaining the necessary permits and permission is required.
Do I Need a Filming Permit in Sioux City?
In Sioux City, filmmakers do not need to obtain general permits for filming and typically face minimal location fees. As a result, the city is welcoming to film projects and allows for quick and easy production. However, it is important to note that certain public locations may require advance permission and evidence of insurance.
If your project includes any of the following, it may necessitate obtaining a filming permit:
To avoid delays and unnecessary expenses, reach out to the City Clerk's Office if you are unsure if a permit is required for your filming activities. Contacting them in advance can ensure proper planning and compliance.
Firearms
Display of real or artificial firearms
Stunts
Execution of dangerous stunts
Public Land
Filming on public land (Filming on public property while exercising First Amendment rights does not require permission or a permit, this includes recording rallies, protests, or demonstrations.)
Street Closure
Filming that necessitates the use of street closures, barricades, sidewalk closures, or lane closures
City Intellectual Property
Incorporation of City intellectual property
Vehicle Chases
Incorporation of vehicle chases and/or crashes
Filming at Night
Shooting film at night in a residential area with an external light
Pyrotechnics
Use of pyrotechnics or other explosives
Water, Smoke, & Flame Effects
Use of water effects, flame effects, or smoke effects
Temporary Structures
Utilization of a temporary structure, such as a stage
Permit Management in Sioux City
City Clerk's Office
The City Clerk's Office in Sioux City is an invaluable resource for film production companies looking to shoot in the area. As part of the Administrative Services Department, the office is responsible for maintaining legal records for the City, documenting City Council meetings, and providing public information. Additionally, they issue occupational licenses and research to ensure compliance with local regulations and laws.
When it comes to film production, the City Clerk's Office works closely with production companies to ensure that filming is done safely and without disrupting the daily lives of citizens. They can also connect companies with relevant public and private organizations that can assist with safety, security, health, and organization for the filming project.
In addition to helping with compliance and logistics, the City Clerk's Office also offers guidance and answers any queries related to coordinating the event. They can assist with logistics during event planning sessions, including event layout, routes for walks and parades, parking arrangements, and transportation coordination. Overall, working with the City Clerk's Office can greatly streamline the process of obtaining the necessary permits and information for successful film production in Sioux City.
What Insurance Do I Need in Sioux City?
Insurance is crucial for film production companies to protect against financial losses that may occur during the production process. This includes coverage for accidents on set, damage to equipment and sets, and cast and crew injuries. Film production is a complex and risky endeavor, with many variables that can lead to unexpected costs.
Insurance can help mitigate these risks and provide peace for the production company and its investors. Insurance can also be required by production locations and other third parties involved in the filming process.
Depending on the details of your project, several insurance policies may be necessary to safeguard against potential liabilities and risks, including:
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 Sioux City?
Sioux City offers an abundance of filming location options for filmmakers. Sioux City offers a diverse range of filming locations, including historic buildings, modern office spaces, and outdoor locations, suitable for any film or TV project.
The Fourth Street Historic District offers diverse architectural styles, from 1800s colonial to 20th-century contemporary high-rise office buildings. Exploring this historic street for filmmaking is a great free option, filled with stunning sights and attractions such as large commercial buildings from the 1880s built in the Richardsonian Romanesque style. The district also boasts a variety of specialty shops and restaurants to enjoy.
Another location for film production in Sioux City is Downtown Sioux City. The area is the center of culture and entertainment in the tri-state area, boasting unique architecture, upscale residential housing, and impressive entertainment venues that make it a must-see destination. Downtown entertainment options include the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, the Sioux City Orpheum Theatre, the Fleet Farm Arena with a capacity of 10,000, the Anderson Dance Pavilion, and the Promenade Cinema 14, which has a view of the Missouri River.
The Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center is a top choice for filmmakers, offering indoor and outdoor spaces to observe wildlife and featuring gardens, classes, and an amphitheater. Nearby, Stone State Park is another popular destination, offering picnic areas, hiking trails, camping options, and the chance to spot wildlife such as red foxes, coyotes, and deer.
Riverside Park is also a great option. Situated on the banks of the River Sioux, this expansive park boasts a variety of amenities, such as tennis courts, a soccer field, and volleyball courts. One of the most popular things to do in Sioux City is to have a picnic in the park, as there are plenty of picnic spots with grills for visitors.
Another perk of filming in the city is that some of the best five-star restaurants and hotels can be found here. The hospitality in the area creates a comfortable atmosphere for filmmakers to work, live, and dine in. Overall, Sioux City is ideal for film managers and producers to find the perfect location for their production.
Special Requirements in Sioux City
City Park Facilities
Permits or reservations are required for the use of Sioux City Park facilities, and you must obtain them from the Parks and Recreation Office at least 60 days in advance of the film production date. Requests submitted after this deadline risk being denied.
Once all requirements have been satisfied and approved, a special event permit will be granted (if required).
Law Enforcement and Traffic Safety
Filming in public right-of-ways may require street closures to ensure the safety of vehicles and pedestrians.
Public safety personnel may be necessary for the protection of event participants and to ensure the safety of the community.
Events involving alcohol or minors may pose a higher risk and necessitate additional protection from public safety officers. The Sioux City Police Department may need to provide police officers to ensure law enforcement at your film production location.
It is important to consult with the Police Department to ascertain the need for public safety or security professionals at your event. The department will review and approve traffic safety measures and may also recommend volunteer staffing for both major and minor events.
The Sioux City Police Department reserves the right to cancel any or all aspects of your event if it poses a hazardous atmosphere for attendees. In such cases, additional police services may be provided and will be invoiced directly to the event organizer.
Barricades
The organizer will be in charge of obtaining barricades from a vendor before the event takes place. The City will only provide barricades for parades and events that they sponsor.
The City Traffic Administration requires a filmmaker to submit a Traffic Control Plan along with the application for approval.
Use of Vendors and/or Alcohol at the Event
Contact the City Clerk's Office for information on license applications if you intend to sell alcohol.
If your event includes vendor sales, you must get a Transient Merchant's License from the Sioux City Clerk's Office.
You can either opt to get a blanket license that covers all vendors, giving you control over who vends, or vendors can acquire their own licenses. It is essential to submit your filming application seven weeks before your event.
Sound Permits
According to Chapter 8.68 of the Municipal Code of Sioux City, anyone wishing to transmit sound through an electronic device or radio in any public place within the city must first obtain written permission from the Police Chief. This applies to both indoor and outdoor locations and includes any sound that may have unobstructed exposure to the public.
A fee of $25.00 will apply if a sound permit is needed. The Parks and Recreation Department will forward the application to the Police Records Division for review. Please be aware that if a valid complaint is received which requires police involvement, the permit may be revoked.
What Does it Cost to Film in Sioux City?
In Sioux City, there is no cost to apply for a film permit. However, additional fees may be incurred from other organizations depending on the specifics of the filming, such as location, duration, and nature of the project. Additional fees may apply depending on the services used during the event, such as facility rental, water, electricity, and barricades. Some facilities may also require additional deposits, such as key deposits, damage deposits, and maintenance deposits.
Additional Fees
Your City Clerks Coordinator can collaborate with you and your budget to fulfill production requirements while reducing these costs.
Geographical Jurisdiction of Sioux City?
Sioux City, located in the northwestern part of the State of Iowa, is a city that sits in both Plymouth and Woodbury counties. With a population of 85,797 in the 2020 census, it is the fourth-largest city in Iowa. The majority of the city is located in Woodbury County, where it serves as the county seat, with a small portion in Plymouth County.
Located at the confluence of the Missouri River, Sioux City boasts a rich cultural landscape with various attractions, such as the Sioux City Art Center, the Sergeant Floyd Monument, the Sioux City Public Museum, and a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can also explore the picturesque Chris Larsen Park, also known as "the Riverfront," which features the Sergeant Floyd Riverboat Museum, the Anderson Dance Pavilion, and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center.
Nestled in the northwest corner of Iowa, Sioux City sits at the mouth of the Missouri River, just a stone's throw away from the bustling Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan region, roughly 95 miles away. It is a part of the region commonly referred to as Siouxland. The city is at an altitude of 1,135 feet above sea level. It shares borders with South Dakota and Nebraska and has a total area of 59.63 square miles, with 58.46 square miles of land and 1.165 square miles of water.
The Sioux City region was originally home to the Yankton Sioux people before Spanish and French fur trappers explored it in the 1700s. Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, in 1804, made the first recorded journey of US explorers through the area. On August 20, 1804, a tragic event occurred during the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Sergeant Charles Floyd, a team member, passed away in the area, making him the only casualty of the expedition's 2.5-year journey.
In the winter of 1854-1855, a new chapter in the region's history began with the establishment of the city of Sioux City. The city quickly became a vital transportation center for the western Plains, attracting a diverse group of travelers, including Mormons on their way to Salt Lake City and prospectors searching for gold in Wyoming.
Outreach in Sioux City
In some cases, before a film permit is granted in Sioux City, some film production actives may necessitate a filming notification to demonstrate that individuals and businesses in the affected area have been notified of the planned activity and allowed to voice any concerns to the City Clerk's Office and the production team.
Typically, you must notify all homes or businesses within 300 feet of filming, 200 feet of street closures, or equipment parking. However, the notification requirements may be based on specific guidelines in areas with Special Conditions. Exceptional filming activities, such as gunfire, high-impact lighting, and explosions, may require notification from a larger area, which the City Clerk's Office may determine based on the expected impact of the proposed filming activity.
Community Management in Sioux City
Sioux City has a distinct advantage in that the public is often familiar with movies and TV production, which can create excitement about having a production in the area. However, this excitement can turn negative if the local community is not engaged and informed.
Effective film production involves building relationships with the local community. Keep residents and businesses informed about disruptions, night work, noise, traffic, and parking changes. Be honest and transparent with the community, and do not make false promises on behalf of the film company.
Being aware of the planned activities on a shoot can reduce anxiety. The locations department or other production personnel may visit the local community to explain their plans or distribute flyers with information about the upcoming activity, including a contact name and number for film personnel. A town meeting may be held for prolonged film shoots to provide further details and address concerns.
Conclusion
Sioux City continues to be a sought-after destination for film production due to its stunning scenery and versatility as a filming location. Filming in the city is cost-effective, with a skilled workforce and decent weather conditions that minimize interruptions. The city's appeal as a great place to live attracts a highly skilled workforce.
The combination of urban sophistication and livability attracts top talent and production teams, offering diverse casting options and the industry's most dedicated crews. The country's abundance of natural settings, from parks to mountains and rivers, provides filmmakers with ample filming options for various scenes without excessive travel.
This, combined with the cost-effectiveness of filming in Sioux City compared to major cities like Los Angeles, makes it a desirable choice for the film industry. The city, in particular, offers a cost-saving option, with the City Clerk's Office handling filming permits.
This filming guide addresses all crucial inquiries regarding film production in Sioux City, including the application process for a film permit, recommended filming locations, community outreach and management, specific requirements, insurance needs, cost of film permits, and more.