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

Chapter 5.64 of the Paramount Municipal Code covers motion picture and television filming. Its definition reaches all activity attendant to staging or shooting commercial motion pictures, television shows or programs, commercials, web- and mobile-based programming, and student films produced to satisfy a post-secondary school course requirement, in film, tape or digital format. Section 5.64.020 requires the permit before anyone uses any public or private property, facility or residence for that purpose. Two exemptions are printed: on-the-spot news gathering by newspaper, news service or similar employees, and the filming of motion pictures solely for private-family use.

The application under § 5.64.030 lists the owner or representative's name, address, email and telephone number, the specific location, the inclusive hours and dates, the nature of the filming, the person in charge, and the exact number of personnel. It also asks for activity that could cause public alarm, such as animals, gunfire, pyrotechnics and low-flying helicopters, the exact amount and type of vehicles and equipment, the owner's written permission or lease, and an affidavit acknowledging receipt of the "Filmmaker's Code of Conduct" guidelines. If the production wants City employees on location, the company reimburses the City of Paramount for the police, fire or traffic personnel provided. Subsection B states there is no fee for location filming permits.

Section 5.64.040 sets the security terms. Before a permit issues the applicant files a certificate of insurance of not less than $1,000,000.00 naming the City of Paramount as a coinsured, with City officers and employees as additional insureds, and the certificate cannot be cancelled or modified until after 30 days' written notice to the City. The applicant also meets workers' compensation requirements and signs a City hold harmless agreement. A refundable security deposit can be required for cleanup and restoration, with a minimum of $2,500.00, increased for extreme action or pyrotechnics. Under § 5.64.050, a request is due at least five working days before filming, or at least 10 working days ahead if the activity interferes with traffic or involves potential public safety hazards.