The University of Oregon welcomes requests to film and photograph on UO property. To help protect the university community, minimize disruptions, and ensure appropriate use of university spaces and trademarks, some filming and photography activities require advance approval.

Do I need approval?

Approval is required for commercial filming or photography on all university property. This includes projects created by outside companies, production agencies, commercial photographers, etc.

Generally, the following activities do not require a filming request:

• Personal photography or videography not for commercial purposes
• Class assignments or other academic projects
• News media coverage coordinated through the Media Relations team.

Even when a filming request is not required, you may still need permission from the building manager, instructor, department, or event organizer before recording in a particular space.

In general, athletics facilities and certain specialized locations have additional approval requirements.

Submit a request

To begin the approval process, email uobrand@uoregon.edu with as much information as possible about your project.

Include:

• Requestor’s contact information (name, phone, email, company name)
• Requested filming or photography dates and times
• Campus locations you wish to use
• What you plan to film or photograph
• Estimated crew size
• Whether you are working with a university department or campus partner
• How the final content will be used or distributed
• A script, storyboard, shot list, or detailed project description
• Whether your project includes drone operations or filming in animal care facilities

Providing complete information helps us review requests more efficiently.

Submit your request at least two weeks prior to your desired filming/photography date to allow adequate time for review and coordination. Larger, more extensive projects may require longer lead time.

How requests are reviewed

Each request is evaluated individually. During the review process, we consider:

• Impacts on students, faculty, staff, and campus operations
• Potential conflicts with university events or activities
• Safety and security considerations
• Use of university facilities and property
• Planned distribution and commercial use of the content
• Potential conflicts with established sponsorships, licenses, and agreements

Some projects may require additional coordination with other university offices before a decision can be made. 

Additional approvals

Depending on your project, you may also need to:

• Obtain approval for drone operations through University of Oregon Safety and Risk Services, who require at least two weeks to review drone requests.
• Follow additional guidelines when filming in animal research facilities.
• Reserve campus spaces through the appropriate scheduling office and pay any applicable reservation or rental fees.

After your request is approved

If your request is approved, you will receive the University of Oregon Recording Agreement to complete before filming begins.

The agreement outlines the terms for filming on university property and includes requirements such as:

• Providing proof of insurance
• Obtaining any necessary talent or appearance releases
• Receiving permission before using the University of Oregon’s name, logos, trademarks, or other protected brand assets
• Providing final materials for university review when required by the agreement

Approval is not final until the Recording Agreement has been completed and fully executed, including proof of insurance.

Planning your visit

Please keep the following in mind:

• Submit your request at least two weeks prior to your desired filming/photography date to allow adequate time for review and coordination.
• Some campus locations require reservations and may include rental or usage fees.
• Production crews are responsible for arranging their own parking and transportation. Visit the UO Transportation Services website to learn about parking options on the Eugene and Portland campuses.

Questions?

For questions about filming or photography on campus, or to begin the approval process, contact uobrand@uoregon.edu.