The Community Filming Survey is a time-tested tool used by FilmLA and public authorities to discover neighborhood concerns with upcoming filming activity. Usually required in advance of more complicated shoots, Filming Surveys are conducted door-to-door near planned film locations by production companies or their hired representatives.
When Greater Los Angeles reopened to filming on June 15 after the COVID-19 shutdown, City and County partners directed FilmLA to temporarily suspend use of Filming Surveys during the permit process. This action was taken out of an abundance of caution, and with consideration for communities affected by COVID-19.
Since then, FilmLA and City and County representatives including experts from the LA County Department of Public Health have worked together to update the Filming Survey guidelines. A new process, based heavily on the protocols applying to door-to-door visits by US Census workers, was adopted by City and County authorities this week. The new process will allow Filming Surveys to resume, while safeguarding the health and safety of residents, business owners and production company personnel.
Effective Friday, August 28, filmmakers may once more be required to perform Community Filming Surveys as a condition of permit release. This requirement may apply when seeking to film in sensitive areas and/or in situations involving road closures, extended filming hours, extended production parking, and extended filming duration. Permit seekers should allocate extra time to complete survey work, mindful of the revised health guidelines.
Our thanks go out to our City and County colleagues for their collaboration on this important effort. Questions about the new survey process should be directed to FilmLA’s Solution Services team at 213-977-8600 or at info@filmla.com.
Important Links and Information:
- Revised Filming Survey and Guidelines (.pdf)
- Supplemental Guidelines (.pdf)
- Sample Filming Survey Map (.pdf)
- Sample Production Company Letter (.doc)
- Complete Survey Package (.zip)