Monterey County, CA Filming & Production: Location Permits (2026)

50, was adopted in 1984 under the County's police-power authority in Article 11, Section 7 of the California Constitution. 030 defines the 'making of movies' as commercial filming, videotaping, or photographing of movies, films, commercials, or television programs on County roads or land or buildings the County owns, but the definition excludes television news coverage and news specials, and it excludes County parks land, which is instead covered by the Parks and Recreation Department's own special-permit procedure. 040 makes it unlawful for a movie production company to engage in the making of movies on those County roads or properties without first obtaining the film permit.

050 puts the Sheriff's Office in charge of administering the permit, including issuing forms, coordinating with other County departments whose separate approvals may be required, and, where necessary, holding hearings before deciding whether to issue a permit; the Sheriff must deny an application if the affected department determines that reasonable conditions cannot prevent a substantial risk of traffic disruption, disruption of County government activity, traffic hazards, environmental damage, or zoning violations. 090 requires the applicant to reimburse the County's costs, pay reasonable rental for County property used, indemnify the County, and carry liability insurance naming the County as an additional insured. 060.