Palm Springs, CA Filming & Production: Location Permits (2026)

Palm Springs has a long cinematic history and actively promotes filming through the Palm Springs Film Office. Any commercial filming (feature films, television, commercials, music videos, branded content) on city streets, sidewalks, parks, or involving city-owned facilities requires a film permit, typically submitted at least 3 to 5 business days in advance with longer lead times for major productions. Permit applications include location list, shoot dates, cast and crew size, equipment list, traffic control needs, and certificates of insurance naming the City of Palm Springs as additional insured (commonly $1 million general liability minimum). Still photography for commercial use on public property also requires a permit. Student productions from accredited film schools and low-impact shoots (three or fewer crew, handheld, no street closure) may qualify for low-fee or waived permits. Productions at private residences still require a permit when filming is visible from the public right-of-way or requires parking beyond residential standards. Modernism Week, Palm Springs International Film Festival (January), and ShortFest (June) coordinate production support with the Film Office. Filming in the Indian Canyons requires separate Agua Caliente tribal approval.