Film/Movie Screening Guidelines for RSOs
Hosting a film screening can be a great event for an RSO, but it’s important to understand the differences between private vs. public viewings and private vs. public locations to comply with copyright laws.
Private vs. Public Viewings
- Private Viewing:
- Audience is limited to immediate family or close friends
- No admission fee is charged
- No advertising, including NvolveU or social media
- RSO-only or recruitment events are NOT private
- Public Viewing:
- Open to anyone beyond close friends or family (e.g., campus or public audience)
- An admission fee is charged
- Advertising is used (bulletin boards, emails, social media)
- Outdoor screenings are always public
- Public viewing rights must be obtained
Private vs. Public Locations
- Private Location:
- A residential space (not common areas) or a classroom for educational purposes
- No public visibility (passersby cannot see the screen)
- Nebraska Union and fraternity/sorority houses are NOT private locations
- Chapter house screenings should be limited to residents, members, and immediate guests
- Public Location:
- Any space where the film is visible to the public
- Example: Meier Commons, even if gated, is public if the film is viewable from outside
- Nebraska Union spaces are public locations
How to Stay Compliant
When submitting the Event Planning & Registration (EPR), answer all questions honestly so SLICE can determine if public viewing rights are needed. To avoid copyright infringement and legal penalties, RSOs should obtain the necessary rights for public screenings.
For assistance, contact SLICE at involved@unl.edu or 402-472-2454.