The Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credit provides a refundable tax credit that equals 30% of in-state expenditures (above and below-the-line) on eligible productions.
Incentive
Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credit
Eligible productions must spend a minimum of $300,000 in the State of Ohio and may include:
Completed application packets must include:
Trade secret information summary and justification (if applicable)
Film Here. Save Big.
Take advantage of Ohio's 30% refundable tax credit when you film in Cleveland. Our dedicated team will help you every step of the way — from permitting to location scouting and more.
Permits
City of Cleveland
Submit permit applications well in advance of your proposed shooting date, as processing time for permits varies based on season, street, and project.
A site plan must be included with your application. A site plan usually includes a map and a brief description of planned maneuvers, special effects, and company moves for the proposed location. When preparing a site plan, we recommend using satellite images and reference pictures whenever available.
Once approved, the production company will need to submit all applicable fees to the city center via either telephone or in person.
The address for the city, unless otherwise indicated, is 601 Lakeside Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44114.
See the FAQ for more City of Cleveland-specific Permit information.
Cuyahoga County
Please direct all inquiries to the Production Coordinator at Greater Cleveland Film Commission.
Akron
Please direct all inquiries to the Production Coordinator at Greater Cleveland Film Commission.
Private Property Filming
Production liability insurance to name the owner as additional insured is recommended even for productions filmed on private property. Most businesses will also require insurance, and it is advised that all property owners request proof of insurance.
Other Cities and Towns
If contact information for the city or town of interest is not displayed, please contact the city's mayor's office. The mayor or their assistant will usually be able to provide the information for the appropriate contact.
Any further questions can be directed to the Production Coordinator at Greater Cleveland Film Commission.
Visit https://development.ohio.gov/business/ohio-film-office/ohio-film-program for more information and how to apply.
GCFC Staff can assist with questions. Please contact Production Coordinator Mike Wendt at 216-499-3912 or mwendt@clevelandfilm.com
Contact the Ohio Film Office at 614-644-5156 or askohiofilm@development.ohio.gov
Physical Address:
Ohio Development Services Agency Ohio Film Office
77 South High Street, Floor 28
Columbus, Ohio 43215
The City of Cleveland has three types of permits that apply to most film situations:
Photography and TV/Film Permit:
Street Opening and/or Sidewalk Obstruction Permit:
Facility and Parks Use Permit:
Click the links below to download a copy of the application, and follow the instructions on the application to submit.
Please note: it is highly recommended that you submit applications at least two weeks before your shoot dates.
GCFC Staff can assist with permitting questions. Please contact Production Coordinator Mike Wendt at 216-499-3912 or mwendt@clevelandfilm.com