Lansing Film Permits and Charity Fee Waivers

Events and Special Uses Michigan 3 Minutes Read ยท published March 01, 2026 Flag of Michigan

Lansing, Michigan requires permits for filming, public events, and many special uses on city property and streets. This guide summarizes where to apply, how charity fee waivers work, enforcement pathways, and realistic action steps for producers and nonprofits operating in Lansing. It highlights the city offices that issue permits and the municipal code sections governing special events and filming. Use the links below to reach the official application pages and the municipal code for exact requirements and any published forms.[1][2]

Overview of Film Permits and Charity Fee Waivers

Filming on public property or when an event affects traffic, parks, or public safety typically requires a city permit and coordination with Lansing departments. Nonprofit organizations seeking fee waivers or reductions for charitable events must follow the city's special event or parks permit procedures and submit supporting documentation showing nonprofit status and the charitable purpose.

Confirm permit type early to avoid delays.

Penalties & Enforcement

The municipal code and city permit pages govern enforcement of filming and special event rules. Specific fine amounts and statutory daily penalties are not specified on the cited municipal pages; see the municipal code and permit pages for details and any published penalty schedules.[1]

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page; consult the municipal code.[1]
  • Escalation: first, repeat, or continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work or removal orders, abatement, or court action may be used where permitted; specific remedies are not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Enforcers and contacts: City Special Events/Permits office, Lansing Police Department, and Code Enforcement handle inspections and complaints; contact links are listed in Help and Support / Resources below.[2]
  • Appeals and review: the municipal procedures for appeals or reviews and any time limits are not specified on the cited page; consult the city code or permit instructions for appeal steps.[1]

Common violations

  • Filming without a permit or without required traffic control.
  • Failure to obtain park or facility permits for on-site filming or events.
  • Not paying required fees or failing to secure insurance as required by the permit.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes permit application instructions and, where available, application forms for special events and street closures; fees and form names may be published on the Special Events or City Clerk pages. If a specific named film-permit form or charity-waiver form is needed, consult the city's permit pages for the current application and submission instructions.[2]

How-To

  1. Determine the permit type needed: film permit, special event, park use, or street closure.
  2. Gather required documents: liability insurance, proof of nonprofit status for charity waivers, site plans, and traffic control plans if applicable.
  3. Submit the completed application and supporting documents to the City Special Events/Permits office by the deadline stated on the permit page.
  4. Request a charity fee waiver or reduction in writing and attach proof of charitable purpose and 501(c)(3) or equivalent documentation.
  5. Coordinate with Lansing Police or Traffic for any required street or traffic control and obtain written approvals before production.
  6. Pay fees or submit appeals per the permit instructions; keep copies of approvals on site during filming.
Start applications at least 30 days before the event when possible.

FAQ

Who issues film permits in Lansing?
The City Special Events/Permits office issues permits for filming on public property; coordination with Lansing Police and Parks may be required.[2]
Can a nonprofit get a fee waiver for filming or events?
Yes, nonprofits may request fee waivers or reductions by submitting documentation of charitable status and the event's charity purpose to the permit office; check the permit page for specific waiver instructions.[2]
What if I film without a permit?
Filming without a required permit can lead to citations, orders to stop work, and other enforcement actions as authorized by the municipal code; specific penalties are not specified on the cited page.[1]

Key Takeaways

  • Contact the City Special Events office early to identify required permits.
  • Nonprofits must provide proof of charitable status to request fee waivers.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Lansing Code of Ordinances (Municode)
  2. [2] City of Lansing Special Events & Permits / City Clerk
  3. [3] Michigan Film Office - Michigan Economic Development Corporation

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