Permit Related COVID-19 Updates:

Due to COVID protocols, Lincoln Park Conservatory and Garfield Park Conservatory are currently closed for photo permits, and Buckingham Fountain remains off until further notice.  

All events and the applicant’s staff working the event, including but not limited to volunteers, guests, vendors, concessionaires and exhibitors are subject to and must abide by all local, state, and federal codes, rules, regulations, ordinances, statutes, and laws including those of the Chicago Park District, the City of Chicago, and the State of Illinois. Below are links to the City of Chicago and the State of Illinois guidelines for Phase IV.

City of Chicago:

State of Illinois: 


For questions, contact us at MediaApp@chicagoparkdistrict.com or leave a voicemail at (312) 763-6710 and a staff member will return your call.
 


The following locations are independently managed, please call them directly: 

  • Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool | (773) 883-7275
  • Lincoln Park Zoo | (312) 742-2000
  • Maggie Daley Park & Cancer Survivors Garden | (312) 552-3000
  • Millennium Park |  (312) 744-6050
  • Olive Park | (312) 744-6635

 

News Media Filming & Photography


To conduct a professional journalism-based activity on park property an approved News Media Confirmation Form is required.  To obtain this form, contact the Chicago Park District Department of Communications at (312) 742-4786. Fees do not apply for news media filming & photography.

Do I Need a Permit?


A permit is required for the following types of filming and photography: 

  • Non-commercial use, such as engagement, wedding, and other special occasions
  • Commercial, such as advertising, catalog photos, publications
  • Documentary
  • Web-based media
  • Student projects
    • Student applicants will be required to submit proof of enrollment in an accredited school working on a class project, to qualify for a student rate.
Permit Pricing


Filming & Photography Permit Pricing includes a $35 Application Fee + Permit Fees
 

Media Permit Types Security Deposit Permit Fees Insurance Required

Non-Commercial Filming/Photography
e.g. Wedding Photos
No Fee

$45 (per location, per hour)
No

Student Filming/Photography
Must be a class project 
No Fee

$45 (per location, per date)

Yes

Commercial Photography
e.g. catalog photos 
$520

$875 (per location, per date)
Yes

Filming Level 1
1-5 crew, talent, vendors, volunteers, etc.

$200

$310 (per location, per date)
Yes

Filming Level 2
6-12 crew, talent, vendors, volunteers, etc.

$200

$500 (per location, per date)
Yes

Filming Level 3
13-20 crew, talent, vendors, volunteers, etc.

$520

$1,125 (per location, per date)
Yes

Filming Level 4
21 and greater crew, talent, vendors, volunteers, etc.
$5,200

$2,100 (per location, per date)
Yes

Note: Media Permit availability may be limited during peak periods. Additional fees may apply for indoor locations which vary by site.

Reserve a 2021 Permit


For Non-Commercial Photography at the following locations: 

  • Buckingham Fountain - OFF UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

Book Now
 


For All Other Filming & Photography: 

Please complete Step 1 & Step 2 below 

STEP 1
Click on the following link to pay a non-refundable $35 Permit Application Fee now, and secure your spot in the queue.
2021 Permit Application Fee (click here)

STEP 2
Click on the link below to complete & submit a Media Permit Application.
Note: You will be asked to include your Permit Application Fee receipt number from Step 1.
2021 Media Permit Application (click here)


For any additional questions, view our Frequently Asked Questions, or call (312) 763-6710.