While you are not required to use the services of Film Nevada, we are a free resource that could help streamline your production.  It is required by law (NRS 231.128) to register any production filming in Nevada with our office, which is a simple form that can be completed here [link to registration page].

No, Film Nevada does not offer any grants at this time and the resources provided by our office do not include assistance in funding or financing for your project. The film tax incentive program is not considered a grant and applicants must have at least 70% of funding already in place in order to apply.

Yes, we support projects of any sized budget with any range of needs during the preproduction, production and postproduction phases.

Our office can provide guidance on the film permitting and permissions processes, as well as provide information on production resources. However, the locations listed in our database require a location fee and production insurance, limiting options for student filmmakers without a budget or insurance.

Permits are required for all commercial filming regardless of crew size or equipment, including those that generate revenue on social media. Any filming activity that impacts the public-rights-of-way, uses pyrotechnics, special effects, or prop firearms, including student projects, will require a permit.

Most city and county jurisdictions require applications to be filed at least 10 days in advance. Many federal areas or parks can take 30 days or longer. But depending on the jurisdiction, size, and scope of your production, these timelines could change. Shorter timelines may be accommodated depending on the circumstances. Productions that require intergovernmental cooperation for permitting, such as for a car chase scene, should allow for longer permitting times.

Yes, proof of insurance from a US-based agency is required to obtain a film permit. Most jurisdictions require a general liability minimum of $1,000,000, though requirements can vary and may include additional endorsements, a waiver of subrogation or other coverage.

The cost can vary based on a variety of factors, including the term of the policy, scope of the production, and coverage needed. Contact an insurance company directly for a quote. A list of Nevada insurance companies that specialize in production can be found in our online directory.

In order to list in the crew and services directory, or to be considered a Nevada resident or business for the film tax incentive program, an individual must have a valid Nevada driver’s license and a company must have a valid Nevada business license.

If an individual does not have a Nevada driver’s license, residency can be confirmed by supplying one of the documents from the DMV list of acceptable documents to verify residency (https://dmv.nv.gov/dlresidency.htm). For the film tax incentive, the document has to verify residency at least 6 months prior to the start of the production.

To be considered a Nevada business for the film tax incentive, in addition to a Nevada business license, the business must have a physical location in the state and maintain at least 1 full-time equivalent Nevada employee.

If you’ve been contacted by a scammer, there are several red flags to look out for:
– The initial communication is either vague or contains spelling and grammatical errors.
– You can’t find any further information on the production company, such as a website, social media, phone number, email, or information on past projects.
– The rate of pay offered seems unusually high.
– They ask for a copy of your driver’s license or personal identity information upfront (DO NOT DO THIS).
– They ask you to cash or deposit a check on their behalf (DO NOT DO THIS).
DO NOT send any personal information, such as a driver’s license or social security number, if you have not yet been hired. On a legitimate production, personal information will be collected for your start paperwork, or the documents needed to be officially hired as an employee, such as a W9, I9, and timecard. Often, this process will be handled by a reputable entertainment payroll company.
DO NOT agree to cash or deposit a check into your personal account before you are interviewed or officially hired.
If you suspect that a production might be a scam, you can contact our office to see if the project is registered.

Tips to avoid casting scams:
· Research as much as possible. Legitimate talent agencies have an established online presence with official social media accounts. If available, read reviews of the agency. Confirm if the business has a valid Nevada license here (https://esos.nv.gov/EntitySearch/OnlineEntitySearch).
· Never pay upfront. Reputable talent agencies or casting calls don’t require payment for auditions.
· Never pay to be signed. While there may be a cost to pay photographers for headshots or portfolio images, you should be able shop around and cost compare.
· Consult trusted resources. If you’re unsure about an opportunity, don’t hesitate to contact our office for confirmation.

NRS 231.128 requires any production (including feature films, television shows, commercials or other audiovisual media) filming in Nevada to pay all debts and obligations within 30 days of wrap.
If you were hired as an employee not covered under a union, a complaint can be filed with the Nevada Labor Commissioner (https://labor.nv.gov/). If you were hired under a collective bargaining agreement, a grievance can be filed with your union. If you were hired as an independent contractor or as a vendor, you can file a case in small claims court.

– University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) offers a Bachelor of Arts in Film (https://www.unlv.edu/film) and an MFA in Writing for Dramatic Media (https://www.unlv.edu/degree/mfa-writing-dramatic-media)
– College of Southern Nevada (CSN) offers a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree in Videography and Film (https://www.csn.edu/schools/school-of-advanced-and-applied-technologies/department-of-media-technologies/videography-and-film-program)
– Nevada State University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Visual Media (https://nevadastate.edu/program/visual-media-ba/)
– University of Reno (UNR) School of Journalism offers undergraduate emphases courses in Documentary Film, Film Production and Media Studies (https://www.unr.edu/journalism) and the Department of English offers an interdisciplinary minor in Cinema and Media Studies (https://www.unr.edu/english/programs-of-study/cinema-and-media-studies)
– Clark County School District (CCSD) offers magnet schools for Cinematic, Performing and Creative Arts (https://magnet.ccsd.net/find-a-magnet-school/?course-keywords=&grade-level=&implementation=&theme=performing-creative-arts&magnet-program=)