Film Incentives
*Please access the Administrative Rules for detailed information about the Filmed in Oklahoma Act of 2021.
What is the difference between the Compete with Canada Act and the Filmed in Oklahoma Act?
The Compete with Canada Act introduced Oklahoma’s first film enhancement rebate program in 2001. This program was successful in introducing Oklahoma as a desirable location for film productions and set the ground work for workforce and infrastructure development. In 2021, the Filmed in Oklahoma Act was signed into law, creating a new film enhancement rebate program that replaced the previous $8 million annual cap with an increased annual cap of $30 million. The Compete with Canada Act will still exist until its scheduled sunset date, so that any projects that have already been prequalified under that program can still submit their final claims. However, as of July 1, 2021, all new applications for the Oklahoma Film Enhancement Rebate Program will be applying under the Filmed in Oklahoma Act.
What is the Stand-Alone Post-Production Incentive?
Projects filmed outside of this state are eligible for the Stand-Alone Post-Production Incentive, which offers a rebate on post-production services that are performed in Oklahoma. The rebate for the stand-alone post-production incentive is 20% base with maximum of 25%.
There are separate applications for each incentive, so please make sure you are applying for the incentive that pertains to your production.
Are there different rules for the Stand-Alone Post-Production Incentive?
For the most part, the stand-alone post-production incentive is the same as the in-state production incentive, with a few differences.
Different from in-state production incentive
- The base incentive is 20% of qualified Oklahoma Expenditures, with a maximum of 25% available through qualified uplifts.
- Applications for the stand-alone post-production incentive (SAPI) only need to be submitted 14 days before the start of post-production in Oklahoma, please see submission schedule below.
- Out-of-state ATL labor does not qualify for the SAPI.
- Non-Resident BTL Labor qualifies at 20%, but limited to full time college students, active military stationed in OK or involved in a restorative workforce program.
- SAPI applications that are awarded do not have the 45, 30, and 10 day benchmark requirements that the in-state incentive applications have. However, full proof of funding for the full post-production budget must be submitted with the SAPI eligibility application.
| SAPI-E | Deadline for Applicants | Award Date | Post Starting |
| Series 1 | June 1 | July 1 | July – January |
| Series 2 | August 15 | September 1 | September – March |
| Series 3 | October 15 | November 1 | November – May |
| Series 4 | December 15 | January 1 | January – July |
| Series 5 | February 15 | March 1 | March – September |
| Series 6 | April 15 | May 1 | May – November |
Same as in-state production incentive
- Resident ATL and BTL labor qualify at 30%
- SAPI projects are still required to include a credit logo (provided by OF+MO) in the credits for a minimum of five (5) seconds.
- SAPI projects are still required to have their final claim reviewed by a third-party CPA before submitting it to OF+MO.
- SAPI projects are still required to have a minimum Oklahoma spend of $50,000.
Are the stand-alone post-production incentive awards part of the $30 million annual cap?
Yes, the stand-alone post-production incentive awards come from the same funds as the filmed-in-Oklahoma rebate awards. There is not a separate fund for those applications/projects.
Is the Filmed in Oklahoma Act rebate program a tax credit or a cash rebate?
The Filmed in Oklahoma Act program is a cash rebate on qualifying Oklahoma expenditures.
Will applications for the Filmed in Oklahoma Act be approved on a first-come, first-served basis?
No. OF+MO considers each Eligibility Application individually based upon many factors, including compliance with the Administrative Rules, and the Filmed in Oklahoma Act of 2021, as well as the benefits of the project to Oklahoma, which include, but are not limited to, the economic impact, quality jobs, tourism, investment in local industry, distribution potential, follow-on work and ability for a project to begin within approved start date. Other factor include funds available, anticipated future program needs, and other projects applying for a rebate. Application does not guarantee acceptance.
What is the new approvals schedule for the incentive program?
For projects with a budget of less than $7.5 Million, OFMO will review and notify applicants of approval and denial according to the schedule outlined below:
Production
| Deadline for Applicants | Award Date | For Films Shooting in: | |
| Series 1 | June 15 | July 1 | August – January |
| Series 2 | August 15 | September 1 | October – March |
| Series 3 | October 15 | November 1 | December 2023 – May 2024 |
| Series 4 | December 15 | January 1, 2024 | February – July 2024 |
| Series 5 | February 15 | March 1, 2024 | April – September, 2024 |
| Series 6 | April 15 | May 1, 2024 | June – November 2024 |
*NOTE: Projects with a budget of at least $7.5 Million may be reviewed and awarded or denied on an ongoing basis.
Stand Alone Post Production Incentive
| SAPI-E | Deadline for Applicants | Award Date | Post Starting |
| Series 1 | June 1 | July 1 | July – January |
| Series 2 | August 15 | September 1 | September – March |
| Series 3 | October 15 | November 1 | November – May |
| Series 4 | December 15 | January 1 | January – July |
| Series 5 | February 15 | March 1 | March – September |
| Series 6 | April 15 | May 1 | May – November |
How is the $30 million annual cap allocated throughout the fiscal year?
There are 6 award periods from throughout the fiscal year (July 1 – June 30), and funding will be allocated throughout the six periods based on the benefit of the applicant projects to the State, the amount of rebate payments already conditionally prequalified by the Department for the current fiscal year; and the ability of the Department to commit funds to additional projects for the current fiscal year.
How will applications be chosen for approval?
During the assessment evaluation period, OF+MO will determine which projects maximize the rebate program’s benefit to the state. Variables of the evaluation scoring system include, but are not limited to the following: Compliance with the Administrative Rules, and the Filmed in Oklahoma Act of 2021.
The benefits of the project to Oklahoma, such as economic impact to local labor, businesses and communities, number of principal photography days in the state, viability of distribution, nationally recognized awards and recognition of the creative team, and the possibility of follow-on work.
Other factors may include funds available, anticipated future program needs, Oklahoma based producers and production companies applying, and other projects applying for a rebate.
Application does not guarantee acceptance.
Which government agency determines the approval of an application?
The rebate program approvals are determined by OF+MO, however, recommendations from OF+MO are passed on to an internal Rebate Review Committee . The members of this committee are comprised of employees of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce which exclude an OF+MO representative.
Is an applicant allowed to know who is on the Rebate Review Committee?
The Rebate Review Committee is made up of employees from the Department of Commerce, excluding team members from OF+MO.
Are outside industry members able to join the Rebate Review Committee?
No, only employees of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce can be members of the Rebate Review Committee.
Are applicants able to speak with a member of the government agency that approves or denies an application?
Yes. You can speak with the Oklahoma Film + Music Office’s Director, Jeanette Stanton, by calling (405) 522-9635 to set up an appointment.
What are the determining factors for an approved application?
As outlined in 150:150-1-7 of the Emergency Administrative Rules, (a) the decision as to whether to offer an incentive, and how much of an incentive may be offered is made at the discretion of OF+MO. (b) The actual rebate percentage approved for a project, if any, is determined by the Department in a way that achieves the maximum positive impact for the Oklahoma economy. (c) In determining the rebate percentage amount to be approved, if any, pursuant to either 68 O.S. §3635 or §3636, the Department may consider the following:
(1) Benefits of the project to the State (including economic impact, industry infrastructure impact, jobs, tourism, branding, image and follow-on work);
(2) The amount of rebate payments conditionally prequalified by the Department for the current fiscal year;
(3) Impact on the ability of the Department to commit funds to additional projects for the current fiscal year;
(4) The amount of incentive believed to be necessary to win the project.
Is there a minimum or maximum score that needs to be achieved for approval?
What is the max amount of points a production can receive under the current scoring system?
An application can receive a maximum of 9 points.
Can applicants know how many points are available in each category?
How can a score be improved?
If more applications then available funding is received during any award period, Commerce will evaluate each application through an evaluation scoring system. Variables of the scoring system include, but are not limited to the following: Compliance with the Administrative Rules, and the Filmed in Oklahoma Act of 2021.
The benefits of the project to Oklahoma, such as economic impact to local labor, businesses and communities, number of principal photography days in the state, viability of distribution, awards and recognition of the creative team, and the possibility of follow-on work.
Other factors may include funds available, anticipated future program needs, Oklahoma based producers and production companies applying, and other projects applying for a rebate.
Application does not guarantee acceptance.
The eligibility application indicates that distribution is noted as favorable to Oklahoma branding and image and is a component of the scoring system. What does that mean?
Distribution is a vital component to Oklahoma’s branding and image, therefore, completed distribution negotiations or deals will hold more weight per application.
What does it mean to film at an iconic Oklahoma location?
The application will provide a list of iconic Oklahoma locations. Examples of iconic Oklahoma locations include, but are not necessarily limited to: the Oklahoma State capitol, The Philbrook Museum in Tulsa, Devon Tower, etc.
What is the protocol if there are more applications received than can be approved?
Why would an application be denied or receive a lower rebate incentive percentage amount?
As outlined in 150:150-1-7 of the Administrative Rules, the incentive percentage to be approved for a project may be determined at the time of Conditional Pre-Qualification of the application with the following limitations:
(1) If a project fails to meet the criteria for a particular Rebate Enhancement for which the project was initially pre-qualified to receive, the percentage of that specific incentive enhancement is removed from the total percentage of the incentive offer.
(2) If a project under performs with regards to any of the Rebate Enhancement categories from what they projected in the initial application, the additional incentive amount offered for that category may be reduced.
(3) If a project uses fewer apprentices than the amount claimed at the time of Conditional Pre-Qualification, the base incentive amount may be reduced.
(4) If the Rebate Claim amount is fifteen or more percent (15%+) lower than the amount for which the Film was pre-qualified, one percent (1%) of the Rebate amount for which the Film would otherwise be paid may be reduced due to the reduced economic benefit to the State.
Can a denied application be appealed?
No. There is not an appeal process at this time.
If an application is denied, can an applicant re-apply to receive the rebate after the completion of principal photography?
If a film has applied and been denied pre-qualification, they may ask to have their application considered for the remainder of the fiscal year. If funding is to become available in the fiscal year, the agency can re-consider pre-qualification of the film even if principal photography has already begun or is completed, as long as principal photography did not begin until after the application was received and pre-qualification was denied.
As funding is competitive, there is no guarantee that a project which has been denied will later be approved funding.
Can applicants change their Multi-Film Deal Status after applying for the incentive?
If an applicant is approved for the incentive and wants to withdraw from the Multi-Film Deal uplift prior to filming, the OF+MO will need to be notified in writing, and a new eligibility application may be requested.
If an applicant wants to withdraw after filming is complete, the OF+MO will need to be notified in writing, and approve, before submitting the final application.
If an applicant wishes to withdraw from the Multi-Film Deal after the final application has been submitted, the OF+MO will need to be notified in writing, and upon approval, the production can withdraw from the MFD, only if the first payout has not been issued and a new final application may be requested.
If the first payout of the MFD has been issued, then the production will remain in the Multi-Film Deal for the three year/three film requirement.
Can an application be re-submitted in subsequent evaluation period?
Yes. If denied, you can resubmit an application for the next evaluation period, or you can let OF+MO know, in writing, that you would like for your application that is currently on file to be re-evaluated in the next period. Your application can remain on file until July 1st, before you would be required to re-submit a new application for the project for consideration.
Is there a location on the website where applicants can view approved applicants/applications?
Is there a location on the website where applicants can view denied applicants/applications?
If I would like to apply for the Filmed in Oklahoma Act, am I allowed to start filming prior to the submission of my application?
Anyone can film in Oklahoma at any time without using the rebate program. However, if you would like to remain eligible for the Filmed in Oklahoma Act, all principal photography must commence after a project is approved for the program.
Is there a cap for the Filmed in Oklahoma Act Rebate Program?
Yes, the Filmed in Oklahoma Act Rebate Program is capped at $30 million per fiscal year (July 1-June 30). Of the $30 million cap, $22.5 million is allocated for productions with budget of at least $7.5 million, and $7.5 million is allocate for productions with budget of less than $7.5 million.
Is the annual cap divided between smaller and larger budget productions?
Per statute, the annual cap is divided between two pools of money:
- $7.5 million of the annual cap is allocated for rebates of projects that have budgets less than $7.5 million
- $22.5 million of the annual cap is allocated for rebates of projects that have budgets of at least $7.5 million
The money is divided in this way so that there is a certain amount of funding that can only go to small-budget films. Over the past several years, the Oklahoma film industry has grown largely in part to smaller indie films. This rule ensures that there will always be space in Oklahoma’s film industry for smaller budgets, even as we continue to grow!
Is the amount of rebate funds available featured on the OF+MO website?
No. At this time, an interested applicant cannot view available incentive funds.
Is there a sunset date for the Filmed in Oklahoma Act of 2021?
The Filmed in Oklahoma Act‘s sunset date is June 30, 2031.
Do I have to show proof of funding?
To utilize the Filmed in Oklahoma Act, projects are required to show proof that 50% of funding is in place is due 45 days prior to the start of principal photography, and proof that complete funding is in place is due 30 days prior to the start of principal photography. For other funding benchmarks, please visit review the Administrative Rules.
If my project is approved, can I change my start of principal photography date?
Do commercials, documentaries or TV series qualify for the Filmed in Oklahoma Act?
Yes, if they meet the eligibility requirements. Please visit the incentives page for more information.
What if I take Oklahoma crew to another state to work on the same production?
Is there an application fee for the Filmed in Oklahoma Act?
What are the eligibility requirements for the Filmed in Oklahoma Act?
A project is eligible for the Filmed in Oklahoma Act if they meet the following requirements:
- A Production must have total expenditures of $50,000 or more to be eligible for the rebate payment.
- For projects applying for the filmed in-state incentive, at least one day of principal photography must be in Oklahoma. However, for television pilots and seasons that are applying for the 2% TV pilot or 5% TV season uplifts, at least 75% of the television pilot or 75% of the series season must be filmed in Oklahoma. A pilot or television show that is filming less than 75% of the project in Oklahoma is still eligible for the program, but it will not be eligible for the TV Pilot or TV Season uplift.
- Unless otherwise authorized by OF+MO, Eligibility Applications submitted for projects filmed inside the State pursuant to 68 O.S. §3635 may be submitted no earlier than one (1) year prior to the start of Principal Photography but no later than forty-five (45) days prior to the start of Principal Photography.
- The exact specifications of the Eligibility Application are shown on the OFMO website, and include but are not limited to:
- (A) General information about the Production;
- (B) Contact information;
- (C) Preliminary production milestone dates;
- (D) A copy of the screenplay (or treatment if appropriate);
- (E) The OF+MO Budget Template
- (F) Full Production Budget
- (G) Various acknowledgements of program and OF+MO criteria and agreements to abide by them.
Are tax-exempt organizations able to apply for the rebate program?
Must a certain percentage of crew be Oklahoma residents?
Do wages paid to non-Oklahoma residents qualify?
Yes, but with limitations. Wages paid to an Oklahoma expatriate will qualify for the rebate program effective through June 30, 2031. Oklahoma expatriates are former residents of Oklahoma, and in order for their wages to qualify, expatriates must fill out a Declaration of Expatriate Status Form to be collected by the production and submitted with the final rebate claim. There is no cap for how many expats a film can use, or how much in expat wages a production can qualify.
Additionally, productions can now qualify payments to out-of-state below-the-line crew members (either through salary or loan-outs). Before April 1, 2023, these payments are only eligible for the 7.5% nonresident incentive, and that incentive is not eligible for any of the available rebate percentage uplifts. As of April 1, 2023, below-the-line crew members are eligible for the 20% nonresident incentive, not eligible for available rebate percentage uplifts.
Out-of-state loan-outs must register with the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s Office in order for their payments to qualify for the rebate program.
Do film apprentices need to be paid?
Are there any sales tax exemptions?
Yes, Oklahoma also offers a Point of Purchase Sales Tax Exemption. Please visit our incentives page for more information.
PLEASE NOTE: This Point of Purchase Sales Tax Exemption cannot be used in conjunction with the Filmed in Oklahoma Act.
Which production costs qualify for the Filmed in Oklahoma Act?
Does the Filmed in Oklahoma Act require an audit or review?
Final rebate applications will be accompanied by a CPA’s report, prepared at the expense of the applicant, attesting that the amounts in the application are qualified Oklahoma expenditures (QOE) that comply with the requirements of the Administrative Rules.
For projects with QOE over $250,000, the materiality threshold used for CPA Review is the lesser of 1% of QOE or $100,000. For projects with QOE under $250,000, contact the Oklahoma Film + Music Office.
For a list of CPA’s, please visit the Oklahoma Production Directory.
Does the Filmed in Oklahoma Act apply to above-the-line compensation expenditures?
Does the Filmed in Oklahoma Act apply to video game production?
It would not apply to most of the game production. However, per statute, “Film” is defined as the following:
“Film” means a professional single media, multimedia program or feature, which is not child sex abuse material as defined in subsection A of Section 1024.1 of Title 21 of the Oklahoma Statutes or obscene material as defined in paragraph 1 of subsection B of Section 1024.1 of Title 21 of the Oklahoma Statutes including, but not limited to,national advertising messages that are broadcast on a national affiliate or cable network, fixed on film or digital video, which can be viewed or reproduced and which is exhibited in theaters, licensed for exhibition by individual television stations, groups of stations, networks, cable television stations or other means or licensed for home viewing markets. The term shall also include filming for interactive and video gaming including, but not limited to, green screen, motion capture and similar production techniques.
I just found out about the Filmed in Oklahoma Act and I have nearly completed my film. Can I still apply?
At this time, only productions that have not yet started principal photography can apply for the Filmed in Oklahoma Act.
If I don’t qualify for the Filmed in Oklahoma Act, can OF+MO still help me?
Yes, OF+MO offers a variety of services, including locations assistance, community liaising, posting casting or crew calls and promoting Oklahoma-made films that have completed production.
Yes. Both non-resident and resident above-the-line payments are qualified expenditures. Non-resident ATL must be paid via loan-out companies, and resident ATL must be paid via loan-out companies or via payroll. No more than twenty-five percent (25%) of your total qualifying Oklahoma spend can be comprised of aggregate qualifying above-the-line payments.
Film Industry
I want to work in the film industry and have no experience. How do I get started?
There is a place for YOU in the Oklahoma film industry! As the entertainment industry continues to flourish both globally and here in Oklahoma, the need for the continued development and expansion of our local film industry workforce and companies is critical. We invite you to explore our website’s resources to learn more about ways you can plug in to the industry and start your careers now! Start with our Getting Started in Film page with resources such as tips for beginners, jobs and internships listings, webinars including OF+MO’s FREE Pivotal Work Series and OF+MO Film School, educational opportunities and more!. You may also register in the Oklahoma Production Directory as an intern in order to gain on-set experience. OF+MO periodically accepts intern applications as well. For more information about networking events, workshops, webinars and more in Oklahoma, subscribe to our e-mail notifications and monthly newsletter, Now Playing, and follow us on social media (@okfilmmusic).
How can I network with other Oklahoma creative media professionals?
How can I be cast in a movie or T.V. show?
Where can I get a list of talent agents?
Please visit the Oklahoma Production Directory to search for more information on local talent agencies or contact Yousef Kazemi.
How do I get distribution for my movie?
Distribution is one of the largest hurdles for independent filmmakers. The Oklahoma Production Directory offers information on local distribution companies. Submitting your film to festivals is a great way to showcase your work to audiences and film industry professionals including distributors. Prestigious international film festivals like Sundance, South by Southwest and Tribeca provide great platforms for distribution. Local film festivals like deadCENTER Film Festival also provide filmmakers with distribution workshops and opportunities. With the rise in streaming services like Netflix and Amazon, the distribution model is rapidly changing.
What kinds of jobs are available on a film or television production set?
Where can I find a list of helpful film definitions and terminology?
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Where can I go to find crew calls?
You can visit the jobs tab on this page or the jobs page on our website, where we regularly post crew calls for projects filming in Oklahoma.
What is the difference between “Above-the-Line” and “Below-the-Line” crew positions?
Which actors are “above-the-line?”
What is a production assistant?
Can the Oklahoma Film + Music Office help me get hired?
How do I become an extra or an actor in a film?
We regularly post casting calls on the jobs page of our website. Check back often to see new opportunities. You can also explore a list of talent agents, casting directors and extras casting services in our Oklahoma Production Directory.
Can I work on a film if I’m still in school?
How do I get a job as a production assistant (P.A.)?
If you have never worked on a film set before, a great place to start would be registering as an Apprentice in our Production Directory. You can choose several different film departments that you are interested in apprenticing (including Set, which would be a more typical P.A. position). All films in our rebate program are required to hire apprentices, and we always point them to the registered apprentices in our directory as the first place to look. Additionally, you can explore the jobs page of our website for current crew calls as well as the “Now Filming” section on our Incentives page, which includes contact emails for job and general inquiries related to current productions filming in Oklahoma.
How can I meet and network with other film industry professionals?
Where do I get information on productions filming in Oklahoma?
You can view current and upcoming productions in the Now Filming section of our Incentives page.
Is Oklahoma a “right-to-work,” “union” or “employment at-will” state?
What unions should I be aware of in the Oklahoma film industry?
There are several opportunities to join film unions and guilds when working in the Oklahoma film industry. Oklahoma crew members can find opportunities for both union and non-union positions on film sets. Our office keeps a list of local labor organization on our Film Resources page under the “Labor Laws + Organizations” tab.
Do I need to be an Oklahoma resident to create a profile for the Oklahoma Production Directory?
Yes, with one exception. Our directory features a Production list for crew members and a Support Service list for film industry vendors. All registrations must be associated with an Oklahoma resident or business, unless you are an Oklahoma Expatriate. If you have previously resided in Oklahoma for at least one year, but do not currently reside in Oklahoma, you can qualify for Oklahoma Expatriate Status, and your wages will qualify at the 30% resident crew rate, and therefore can be registered in the Production Directory.
Are there other Oklahoma film directories that I can register for?
How is “Oklahoma Resident” defined?
Does the Oklahoma Film + Music Office offer any educational resources for those already working or interested in getting started in the film industry?
We have a number of FREE educational resources and video lectures on our YouTube page, including the Pivotal Work: Early Access Series and the OF+MO Film School Video Series. Additionally, we keep a running list of workshops, film schools and other educational opportunities listed in the Education tab on this page, or the Educational Opportunities page.
Does the Oklahoma Film + Music Office offer an apprentice program?
Can I work if I am a minor?
Where do I submit my resume to get work in an entry level position?
Productions often employ Line Producers (LPs) or Unit Production Managers (UPMs) who generally serve as the first point of contact for productions looking to hire local crews and contract services. OF+MO publishes crew calls with production contact information for those hiring locally on our website on the Jobs page. Additionally, we also share email addresses for productions to receive job-related and general inquiries on the Now Filming section on the Incentives page. Additionally, many local LPs and UPMs are registered in the Oklahoma Production Directory. You could submit your resume to them for consideration – but please keep in mind we do not recommend directly phoning or frequently emailing registrants.
Can I work part time on a film?
Is there a resource for finding local crew and vendors?
The Oklahoma Production Directory is a one-stop-shop for all things film. The directory allows film and television productions access to local listings with contact information for crew members and film friendly support services as they seek to local hires and related business services.
Can I get work on a film in Oklahoma if I don’t live there?
Are there other film offices in Oklahoma that could be a resource for me?
A division of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, the Oklahoma Film + Music Office (OF+MO) is the state film office, which offers support and promotion across all statewide cities and counties. Additionally, a number of cities and regions offer localized support with their own film office or through their certification as a film friendly community through OF+MO’s Oklahoma Film Friendly Community Program. Outside OF+MO, the Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts & Culture and the Cherokee Nation Film Office are the only offices to have accreditation from the Association of Film Commissions International (AFCI). A list of local offices and certified film friendly communities can be found the Film Friendly page.
Locations
How does OF+MO assist with location scouting?
OF+MO can arrange for a physical location scout to locations within the state on a case-by-case basis; however, we do not provide monetary travel compensations for productions. The fastest and most effective method to explore Oklahoma’s diverse locations is by accessing our online database, the Oklahoma Locations Directory. Users of the directory can explore thousands of photo galleries highlighting potential filming destinations across the state’s 12 different eco-regions. Inquiries about specific filming locations can be sent to OF+MO via e-mail correspondence through the directory.
How can I have my property used in a film?
OF+MO is continuously seeking locations to populate our online database, the Oklahoma Locations Directory. Sharing your property for potential use in a film production is a fairly streamlined process. Simply scout your location (take photographs) and OF+MO can create a customized login whereby you can upload your photos directly to our database. Alternative methods of submitting location photos can be arranged on a case-by-case basis. For questions about sharing your location, please contact Yousef Kazemi.
I need rural locations for my production. Can I still base out of a larger city?
Crew
Where can I find information about production services?
Please visit the Oklahoma Production Directory for information about production services or contact Yousef Kazemi for further questions.
Is there experienced film crew in Oklahoma?
Yes, Oklahoma has experienced crew and support services, which are listed in the Oklahoma Production Directory. Currently, our industry is about 2-3 crews deep, however, OF+MO offers an additional layer of crew through our expatriate roster upon request. Expatriates are Oklahoma natives currently working in the film industry who are based outside of Oklahoma. For more information about Oklahoma expatriates or to register as an expatriate, please visit the Oklahoma Production Directory or email Yousef Kazemi.
Where is the film crew located in the state?
How can I get the word out about my company?
Registering in the Oklahoma Production Directory is the best way to promote your business to the state’s film, television and music industries. The Oklahoma Production Directory is an online database which allows our local industry crew members and film-friendly businesses to register their trades and services to be considered for employment by film and television productions working in Oklahoma. Registrants in the directory can upload their contact information, credits, resumés and more. The directory is a free service offered by OF+MO to promote jobs creation and economic development within the film and music industries.
**OF+MO promotes the Production Directory equally to all productions and does not give recommendations for any individuals or entity.
Filming in Oklahoma
What are some of the benefits to filming in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma offers one of the highest cash rebate percentages in the nation at a potential maximum of 30%. With a base of up to 20% and several possible percentage uplifts, even small independent films will find the Filmed in Oklahoma Act easily accessible. There are no caps for how much a single project may obtain in rebates, however, the program has a $30 million cap per fiscal year (July 1-June 30), with $22.5 million being allocated for budgets of at least $7.5 million and $7.5 million being allocated for budgets less than $7.5 million.
An extremely wide breadth of filming locations can be found among Oklahoma’s 12 eco-regions, with everything from the trademark great plains and sweeping prairies to the unexpected lush forest, expansive plateaus and sand dunes. For any project coming to the state, film-friendly Oklahoma businesses are eager to offer up heartland hospitality to productions, big and small.
These film-friendly elements combined with the low cost of living and favorable economy make Oklahoma a prime destination for your next film, television or music production.
How do I find out about productions that are currently filming in Oklahoma?
For a list of productions that have been pre-qualified for the Filmed in Oklahoma Act, including their tentative dates of filming, please visit the Now Filming section on the incentive tab . You may also subscribe to our e-mail notifications and monthly newsletter, Now Playing, for more information on film and music news and events in Oklahoma.
Does OF+MO have stock footage of Oklahoma?
Do I have to get permission to film in Oklahoma?
Do I need a new permit for each filming location?
How much does it cost to film on state property?
If my shoot requires pyrotechnics, who do I contact?
If my shoot requires traffic control, who do I contact?
Where can I find information on Oklahoma child labor laws?
Please contact the Oklahoma Department of Labor for more information on child labor laws pertaining to the entertainment industry.
Do I have to have insurance to film in Oklahoma?
The State of Oklahoma does not require film productions to carry insurance. However, films utilizing the Filmed in Oklahoma Act administered by OF+MO must meet specific insurance requirements as mandated by the guidelines of the program without exception. Film productions are strongly advised to have insurance policies in place to ensure the safety of cast, crew and locations while filming in Oklahoma – and many of these parties will prohibit filming and/or their involvement with the production without a policy in place.
Is Oklahoma union or right to work?
About Oklahoma
What is the weather like in Oklahoma?
What is the nightlife like in Oklahoma?
With countless venues and events throughout the state, there is always something to do in Oklahoma! Oklahoma has over 125 film and music festivals, for information regarding film and music events, please sign up here for our newsletter!
Oklahoma City Thunder is our pro-basketball team, and we host two baseball teams, the Oklahoma City Baseball Club and the Tulsa Drillers
Concert venues include the Bank of Oklahoma Center in Tulsa or Paycom Center in Oklahoma City. The TravelOK.com events calendar provides a comprehensive list of statewide events of all types.
Music
I want to work in the music industry and have no experience. How do I get started?
I am an artist. How can I book more gigs in Oklahoma?
How can I get my music in a film or television show?
Do I need a permit to have a music festival in Oklahoma?
Yes. There are multiple permits that may be required depending on the type of event you are looking to host, including noise permits and alcohol permits. Please review our music permitting page for more details.
How can I let musicians know about my Music Business?
I am looking for Oklahoma talent for my music event. Can you help me?
Oklahoma Film + Music Office (OF+MO)
What services does OF+MO provide the film and music industries?
Film: The Oklahoma Film + Music Office (OF+MO) strives to support and connect local, national and international filmmakers with Oklahoma’s skilled crew, talent, production services and diverse locations which span across 12 eco-regions. OF+MO administers the Filmed in Oklahoma Act and connects filmmakers to a variety of local resources, including location portfolios, location permitting, local crew and support services via our online Locations Directory and Production Directory. We can also announce open call for entries as well as any crew and casting/extras calls.
Music: OF+MO promotes and showcases Oklahoma’s rich musical heritage and connects emerging artists of all genres to music venues and businesses across the state with the Oklahoma Music Directory. If you have a music festival or event, we can host or announce your open call for entries.
Our purpose is to grow the film and music industries statewide.
How is OF+MO funded?
What is the difference between OF+MO and the Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts and Culture?
OF+MO is the state agency tasked with managing the Filmed in Oklahoma Act rebate program and supporting the film and music industries on a statewide level.
The Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts & Culture provides resources to further grow, develop and enhance the Tulsa Region’s creative industries including film, music and arts, all while promoting Tulsa as a creative hub and cultural destination for these industries.