Anaheim, CA Filming & Production: Location Permits (2026)

AMC Section 4.03.030 requires a film permit before anyone uses public or private property, a facility, or a residence in Anaheim "for the purposes of taking commercial motion pictures or television photography." Section 4.03.040 exempts spontaneous news broadcasting, purely private noncommercial filming, filming on property the production company owns or has leased for more than six months where the public cannot view the activity, and any filming at Anaheim Stadium under existing stadium-use agreements. Applications go to the Director of Public Works at least ten business days before the permit's effective date and must identify the applicant, production company, dates, times and locations, cast and crew size, vehicle counts, and whether wild animals, chemicals, explosives, fire or other hazardous activities are involved (Section 4.03.060).

The Director must weigh public health and safety, disruption to nearby businesses or residents, property safety, and traffic congestion before approving, conditioning or denying a permit, and must act within three business days of filing, notifying the applicant by mail or fax with reasons for any denial (Sections 4.03.050, 4.03.090). Section 4.03.070 requires the permittee to reimburse the City for the actual costs of police, fire and traffic control personnel, property use or equipment needed for the shoot, on top of any separate business license, Fire Department or Police Department fees.

Before a permit issues, Section 4.03.080 requires liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence for general and automobile liability, additional coverage for pyrotechnics reviewed by the Fire Department, a hold-harmless and indemnity agreement, and a faithful performance bond to guarantee cleanup and restoration. A denied or conditioned permit may be appealed to the City Manager within five business days of notice, resulting in a de novo review decided within five business days (Section 4.03.100).