Effective immediately, FilmLA is now accepting permit applications for Low Impact Tier productions under a new, six-month pilot program with the City of Los Angeles.
As announced last week at a press conference with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass at Echelon Studios in Hollywood, the Low Impact Permit Pilot Program allows filmmakers working on low impact film shoots to obtain City of Los Angeles film permits at a significantly reduced price.
Incorporating reduced FilmLA Application Fee ($350) and Notification Fees ($156/location), plus a full waiver of the LAFD’s Spot Check Fee (formerly $285), Low Impact Tier permits will cost up to 58 percent less than Standard Tier permits.
The Low Impact Pemit Pilot Program is intended for use by filmmakers whose work on-location has demonstrably low impact on the surrounding community. Any type of project can qualify, provided it meets City-approved Low Impact criteria.
Applying for a Low Impact Tier permit is straightforward. Applicants will now be prompted to choose either the Standard Tier or Low Impact Tier when starting a new film permit application in MyFilmLA.
Aligned with Mayor Karen Bass’ Executive Directive 11, the Low Impact Pilot Program advances FilmLA’s goal to encourage on-location production in the region by making permits more accessible and affordable.
FilmLA’s Board of Directors has pledged to contribute funds from its operating reserve to cover the FilmLA staff and technology cost of the program through October, 2026.
