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.
See how Long Beach's location permits rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.