Santa Ana, CA Filming & Production: Production Noise (2026)

All film permit requests in Santa Ana are reviewed by the Santa Ana Police Department through the supplemental application process. Productions involving elements that could disturb the surrounding community are flagged for additional scrutiny. Elements of concern include loud amplified sound equipment, simulated gunfire or weapons discharge, explosions or pyrotechnic effects, vehicle chases or high-speed driving, and activities that could be mistaken for actual emergencies by the public. When the Police Department determines that an element of concern is present, the production may be required to have mandatory police supervision during filming. Officers assigned to production supervision work on overtime, and the production company is responsible for all hourly overtime costs plus any additional police expenses incurred. A four-hour minimum applies to all officer overtime assignments. The City does not publish a specific decibel limit for film productions, but the general Santa Ana noise ordinance and California nuisance law (Civil Code 3479) apply. Productions must provide advance notification to neighbors in the filming area. Nighttime filming with amplified sound or special effects typically faces stricter review. The Police Department may impose conditions on filming hours, sound levels, and notification requirements as part of the permit approval.