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

Chapter 23.92 of the Placentia Municipal Code requires a permit from the city administrator or designee before making commercial films in the City of Placentia. Section 23.92.020(a) covers city streets, alleys, sidewalks, parks and other public property, and subsection (b) covers private property. The chapter does not apply to news media or to filming solely for private-family use. Section 23.92.010 defines commercial films as all activity attendant to filming any entertainment or advertising programs for any media, and filming includes set-up, strike and time of photography.

Under § 23.92.030, the applicant agrees to indemnify and defend the city and files the application a minimum of two (2) weeks before the first day of filming, though fast tracking is available. The form is the one adopted and in use by the Orange County film commission. It must list the location, hours and dates, a typed description of the activity including potentially disruptive parts, the person in charge, personnel numbers, animals, pyrotechnics or night lights, and major equipment such as trucks, buses, limousines and cameras.

The city administrator issues the permit if the use will not unreasonably interfere with traffic or pedestrian movement or nearby residents' quiet enjoyment, will not impede emergency vehicles, and will not create a fire or safety hazard. Incomplete or false applications are denied, and a permit can be revoked immediately if conditions are no longer met.

Section 23.92.040 sets an application fee by city council resolution, a business license tax under § 5.08.340 for applicants whose sole business is commercial filming, and reimbursement of city personnel and equipment costs. Section 23.92.050 requires owner consent, public works review of temporary No Parking signs, and traffic restricted to one twelve (12) foot lane at most. Section 23.92.060 requires insurance naming the city as additional insured and allows a refundable cleanup bond. Under § 23.92.070 the city acts within not greater than five (5) days, and appeals go to the city council within five (5) calendar days after notice, with council action within fifteen (15) days.