Filming & Production in San Luis Obispo County, CA (2026)
2 rules for unincorporated San Luis Obispo County, California.
Verified from official government sources
Location Permits
Filming or photographing on San Luis Obispo County property for motion pictures, TV, or still photography requires a film permit from the issuing agency before any activity begins. The rule sits in County Code Sec. 2.11.052, enforced by the Department of Central Services.
SLO County Film Permit Required on County Property
Significant RestrictionsSan Luis Obispo County Code Sec. 2.11.052
Except as provided in Section 2.11.053, a person shall not use any county property in the County of San Luis Obispo or property or facilities belonging to the county San Luis Obispo or the special districts under the jurisdiction of the San Luis Obispo Board of Supervisors for the purpose of motion picture production, television production or still photography without first applying for and rec...
Student Filming
Student filmmakers still need a county film permit to shoot on county property, but Sec. 2.11.053(b) waives the permit fee for anyone who submits a school-letterhead letter confirming enrollment and non-commercial use.
SLO County Student Filmmaker Fee Waiver
Light RestrictionsSan Luis Obispo County Code Sec. 2.11.053(b)
(b)Any applicant who submits a letter written on school letterhead by a school administrator or instructor stating that the applicant is currently enrolled in a recognized United States educational institution and that the film, video tape or photograph is not for commercial release is exempt from any permit fees established pursuant to this chapter.
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