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Conference Services

Filming, Drones & Photography Policy

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TCU recognizes that, in general, Texas Christian University campus is open to the public and buildings and grounds serve as a backdrop, amateur still photography and filming and videotaping will not be prohibited unless the recording affects University operations or policies.

Campus Commons

Commercial Photography & Video

Commercial photography and filming/videotaping events are considered a Non-University Event by definition. The University holds the right to review the nature and scope of any commercial filming/videotaping and determine if the activity meets University standards. Such reviews fall under the purview of the University's Office of Marketing and Communication.

Film Location Requests (Outside Groups)

Thank you for your interest in TCU as a possible filming location. The Office of Marketing & Communication evaluates all filming requests and processes all required paperwork, including insurance certificates and fees. As an educational institution, TCU’s foremost responsibility is to the learning environment of its students. However, outside filming and photography is occasionally permitted.

Terms & Conditions
Any group wishing to film or conduct photo shoots on the TCU campus must:

  1. Complete the Location Request Form at least 30 days in advance of the preferred film/photo shoot date. This lead-time is necessary to get all proper approval. The request should include the script and details such as preferred date/time, equipment requirements, shot list, etc.
  2. Pay location fee: $1,000 for up to four hours or $2,000 for a full day (five to eight hours).
  3. Email a copy of the script or storyboard to marketing@tcu.edu. Please use “Location request script” in the subject line.

Use TCU logos, names or landmarks in any shots is not allowed. All external groups filming on campus must have a TCU employee (usually a member of the Office of Communication staff) present during entire shoot.

Filming Approval Process

  1. Applicant submits written request to TCU Marketing & Communication, including the script and details such as preferred date/time, equipment requirements, shot list, etc.
  2. If approved, the Office of Communication sends an email to Conference Services notifying them of the date/time.
  3. Conference Services then sends the applicant an application and develops a contract outlining the details of the photo shoot.
  4. The applicant will then return the application, signed contract, required insurance and location fee.
  5. Once all items have been returned, Conference Services emails the Office of Communication to notify them that the paperwork is complete and the shoot will proceed.

NOTE: At times the location fee and requirement not to use TCU logos, name or landmarks in shots may be waived dependent upon the situation. The process and insurance policy is never waived.

Drones at TCU

TCU values the safety, security and privacy of our community. The use of any unmanned aircraft systems (UAS, also known as drones) is prohibited on campus, unless approved by administration.

To apply for UAS use on campus, you must:

  • Complete the Drone Request Form at least 30 days in advance of the filming or photo shoot date.
  • If filming for commercial use, pay a $1,000 location fee per day (one day equals four hours) and provide a script or storyboard for review.
  • Provide a certificate of insurance ($1 million liability insurance policy naming TCU as the additional insured).
  • Sign a contract outlining the details of the agreement.
  • Adhere to all TCU and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations regarding UAS use.

Drone Approval Process

Approval must be obtained two weeks prior to the event in order to implement security measures.

TCU Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (Drone) Policy

Any individual found in violation may be fined up to $500, as defined by Texas law, in addition to other sanctions deemed appropriate by proper authorities. Any operator of a UAS must also follow all applicable state and federal laws pertaining to such operation. Detailed information regarding federal regulations on the use of UAS is available on the Federal Aviation Administration website.

Any operator of an unauthorized UAS will be held responsible for any injuries or damage caused by the UAS.