Movies are an easy, affordable way to entertain campers of all ages. Whether it’s an outdoor movie under the stars, a dive-in film on the beach, or simply a rainy afternoon, movies are a popular way to supplement camp activities.
ACA reminds camps that a public performance license is required when movies, TV programs, and other content intended for personal, private use only, is shown at camp. For almost 40 years, the Motion Picture Licensing Corporation (MPLC) has been issuing Blanket Licenses, which are a simple and affordable way to show movies at your camp while making sure you are legally covered.
Best of all, ACA members receive a discount on the Blanket License.
| Blanket License Duration | ACA Members | Nonmembers |
| 3 Months (Summer Only) | $595 | $969 |
| Year | $1259 | $1889 |
To secure a Blanket License for your camp, simply complete the Blanket License Application. If your camp already has one, then no need to reapply! Your license automatically renews each year at the ACA member rate.
The license provides coverage for rights holders ranging from major Hollywood studios such as Disney and Warner Bros. to smaller independent studios.
According to the U.S. Copyright Act, Title 17 of the United States Code, the public exhibition of copyrighted motion pictures and other audiovisual programs that are intended for personal, private use only, via any legal format, including but not limited to DVDs, streaming, and downloads, is illegal without a public performance license. Simply put, showing movies in public requires a public performance license. This requirement applies equally to for-profit and nonprofit organizations. Civil penalties for unauthorized exhibitions start at $750 for each inadvertent infringement and go as high as $150,000 for each egregious violation.
ACA has partnered with MPLC to make camp movie night simple, affordable, and legal. If you currently show movies or plan to this season, please be sure to complete the Blanket License Application and return it to MPLC. After it's submitted, you'll be covered!
If you have questions, please contact either the American Camp Association at (765) 342-8456, or MPLC at (800) 462-8855 or us.mpcl.com.
Also interested in music licensing? ACA Members receive a discount through ASCAP.