The CalArts Events Office assists film companies, photographers, and other media representatives with film and photography requests on campus. Our office will issue the required film or photo permit and arrange all Institute-related services.
CalArts will look at each filming request on a case-by-case basis and make every effort to accommodate the scheduling needs of the production. Availability of locations for filming depends on a number of factors including curricular or extracurricular student activity, Institute business activities, or facility maintenance projects. While most areas may be used for filming, certain areas may not be available for filming rentals at the Institute’s discretion.
Please include the following information in your request:
Location you are interested in
Date and time frame you would like to scout
Shoot dates
Name of film, show, or commercial product
Description of the scene you are shooting
Size of cast and crew
Cost Estimate
Once a scout has occurred and locations have been determined, the CalArts Director of Events will generate a cost estimate for your film shoot. They will work directly with you to tailor an estimate based on your specific requests. An estimate will have a breakdown of the permit fees, specific venue charges, parking needs for crew and base camp, and other Institute staffing charges. An estimate may be modified prior to the signed contract. Parking and house power (within reason) is included in the estimate. CalArts staff, student PA fees, and grounds/custodial needs are additional charges.
The CalArts Director of Events is your site representative and will be with you from start to finish. During the day of the shoot, all inquiries and questions from the production company should be directed to the CalArts Director of Events. The Director of Events is there to ensure adherence to Institute policies, respond to budgetary and contractual changes, and resolve any issues or concerns that may arise.
Cast and crew must park in the designated parking area determined during location scout. CalArts is an active campus and parking must be available for community members who need access.
Payment is due upon arriving on campus for filming. Checks should be made out to California Institute of the Arts and be delivered to CalArts’ Director of Events before accessing rented spaces.
Do I need script approval from CalArts?
Yes. A script or storyboard must be submitted in advance for consideration.
Can I bring my own caterer?
Production companies are allowed to bring their own caterer for all locations on campus.
Can I reference CalArts in my film?
No. You will not be permitted to photograph/film or use any written signs or any other evidence that, directly or indirectly, identifies the Institute or any building names. This includes:
Use of the Institute’s name or the name of any building owned by, or found on CalArts campus, in spoken word or in written manner.
Have the words “California Institute,” “CalArts,” or any variation thereof used in the fictitious school’s name or when referencing the school.
Make reference to the fictitious art school being located in “Santa Clarita”, or “Valencia”.
