Commercial Filming and Photography on Campus
The Office of University Communication and Marketing assists companies and other media representatives with film and photography requests on campus. The Office reviews requests for alignment with university values and brand, helps to ensure compliance with University of Nebraska policy, and provides cost estimates when applicable. Requests will be evaluated for potential impact on the University’s operations and brand alignment.
Requests to film on a UNL campus should be made in writing at least 14 days in advance of the proposed film date, and should include the following details:
- Business name and brief description of the business
- Specific location on campus
- Dates, times and duration of filming
- Number of crew and cameras
- Summary of subject matter, including script, if available
- Any other specific needs.
Requestors will be required to fill and sign a facility use agreement and provide proof of commercial liability insurance of no less than $1 million per occurrence and $3 million aggregate. If using an ACORD Form, the policy must name “The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska” as an additional insured.
Individuals or organizations filming for non-commercial purposes may not be subject to the protocol previously outlined. Examples of exemptions include:
- Personal use, such as outdoor filming/photography for graduation photos, engagement or wedding photos.
- News reporting purposes are excluded from commercial filming and photography processes and can be directed to the Office of University Communication and Marketing news and media relations team.
- Use by campus units as part of official business (marketing campaigns, social media videos for official pages, or instructional videos as examples).
- Filming or photography by students or faculty for academic purposes, including filming or photography to complete classwork or research.
The following additional policies may also be applicable:
- If filming with a drone, requestors must also adhere to the University’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems policy.
- Requests for filming related to political activity must comply with Board of Regents Policy 6.4.10 and UNL’s Use of University Facilities and Grounds policy.
- If filming in an area with animals, the Policy on Photography and Videography in Areas with Animals also applies.
To submit a request, email us at ucomm@unl.edu or call 402-472-2211.