For Filmmakers

It’s easy to be entranced by the spectacle of three majestic horses, seemingly ridden by a trio of apes, walking along Venice Beach. And yet, that was exactly the view these animal performers gave onlookers while filming their cameo appearance in Disney’s blockbuster “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.”… >>Read more

FilmLA’s investment in proactive community relations takes many forms. Our robust Notification and Monitoring programs aim at keeping communities informed and supported before and during production.  Since 2013, we’ve also maintained a dedicated team of outreach liaisons, who work in collaborative fashion to share expert knowledge and build positive connections… >>Read more

“I’m thinking about listing my property for filming. This is the first time I’ve done this. What am I getting myself into?” -Anonymous For nearly 30 years, FilmLA has been Los Angeles’ leading resource connecting filmmakers and the communities in which they film. As a liaison between our government clients,… >>Read more

FilmLA previously published guidance for filmmakers on when film permits are required in Greater Los Angeles. Even though FilmLA does not process special event permit applications, a question is sometimes asked by event planners, community organizers, and concert promoters. The question is, “Do I need a special event permit?” You… >>Read more

Late last year, FilmLA introduced a major update to its MyFilmLA customer portal. For the first time, filmmakers gained the ability to apply for school filming licenses online. The old way of doing things, requiring work in separate systems to obtain a license and valid permit, created numerous challenges. Now… >>Read more

So, you want to do some filming (or take some pictures) in/around Los Angeles and want to know if you need a permit. It’s a good question, and if you’re inclined to ask, the answer is definitely “maybe.” FilmLA serves 21 different jurisdictions, whose rules for when permits are required… >>Read more