Film location permits in Los Angeles County, CA — sometimes called film shoot permits, production permits, or filming authorizations — cover commercial photography, video shoots, and motion picture production.
FilmLA, the nonprofit film office, issues location permits for unincorporated LA County under Title 22.140 plus 31+ contracted cities. Permits run $795 base plus daily site fees, certificates of insurance, and notification of impacted neighbors.
Location filming in LA County funnels through FilmLA, a nonprofit coordinator established in 1995. Under LA County Code Title 22.140 (Filming Permits), unincorporated areas require a FilmLA permit for any commercial production using public ROW, parks, or sensitive private locations. FilmLA also serves the City of LA and 31+ contract cities including Pasadena, West Hollywood, Glendale, and Beverly Hills with each city's permit add-on. Standard permits run $795 application plus daily location fees, $1M general liability and auto insurance, monitor fees from LASD/LACoFD/Public Works as needed, and 24-hour neighbor notification within 300 feet. Sensitive locations (residential streets, beaches, hillside roads) require enhanced community-relations protocols.
Filming without a permit in unincorporated LA County is a misdemeanor under §22.140.090 with fines up to $1,000 per day, equipment seizure, and producer blacklisting. Permit-condition violations trigger revocation plus liability for cleanup and damages.
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See how Los Angeles County's location permits rules stack up against other locations.
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