Disclaimer
FilmLA has gathered the location filming information in this article as a service to the entertainment industry. It is updated regularly, but also subject to change. FilmLA cannot and does not guarantee that the information contained here is at any time complete and without error. By using this site, you acknowledge these limitations and agree that neither FilmLA, nor its predecessors, successors, partners, affiliates, directors, officers, employees, agents or representatives shall be liable for any reason for damages of any nature (including special, incidental, compensatory, consequential or punitive) to any individual or entity who uses or relies on the information contained here for any purpose. Factual errors may be reported to FilmLA using the links provided at the bottom of the article.
State Incentives
California Film & Television Tax Credit Program
The California Film Commission manages a robust production incentive program on behalf of the State of California. Funded at $750 million per calendar year, the program allows qualifying film and television projects to receive transferable credit on qualified in-state production expenses of 35 percent. Program access is application-based, with multiple award rounds offered each calendar year. Project funding is competitively awarded based on each project’s potential for job creation and economic stimulus. Multiple project categories are eligible, including dedicated funding for independent films with budgets from $1-$10 million. Learn more about the program at film.ca.gov.
County Incentives
The County of Los Angeles is in the process of evaluating proposed filming incentives. Check back soon for updates!
City Incentives
City of Los Angeles Use Fee Waiver
Through a regularly-renewed Mayoral directive, the City of Los Angeles waives most use fees for filming at city-owned facilities and for parking in City-owned off-street parking lots. The City’s portfolio of filming-ready properties, including Los Angeles City Hall, is extensive, allowing for a variety of creative location uses. Please note that some exclusions and conditions apply. The waiver does not extend to fees for use of City personnel, who may be required during filming for on-site supervision.
City of Los Angeles “Micro Shoot” Permit
On Tuesday, October 27, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously approved a Keep Hollywood Home ordinance/motion to offer a free “Micro Shoot” filming permit to qualifying productions, and make City properties available to filming for $1 per day. These motions function as legislative directives to City departments to draft an implementation plan. Additional information is still pending. While these permits are not yet available, FilmLA expects to be able to share more information within 60 days. Register for FilmLA Production Alerts to receive more news about the program as soon as the City makes it available.
FilmLA Incentives
Low Impact Permit Pilot Program
FilmLA is offering a Low Impact Permit Pilot Program in partnership with the City of Los Angeles. Launched in April 2026, the program was planned to operate for six months, and subsequently extended to April 2027.
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. A Low Impact Tier project filming for three (3) days at three (3) locations will see its out-the-door permit cost reduced by around 58 percent, compared to the cost of the same activity on a Standard Tier permit. .
Aligned with Mayor Karen Bass’ Executive Directive 11, the program advances FilmLA’s goal to encourage on-location production in the region by making permits more accessible and affordable. The program leverages FilmLA’s permit coordination expertise and MyFilmLA technology to make participating seamless for qualifying permit applicants.
Low Impact Pilot Program Overview
Student Permit Discount
FilmLA’s standard permit application fee is heavily reduced for student filmmakers completing school assignments while enrolled in accredited post-secondary film education programs. Click here to find out how to apply for a student film permit. For standard filming activities in non-sensitive communities, students also have the option to save money by performing Community Notification themselves using a FilmLA-supplied form.
Student Filming Notification Form
Non-Profit PSA Discount
FilmLA’s standard permit application fee is heavily reduced for filmmakers working on public service announcement (PSA) projects on behalf of registered not-for-profit organizations. The PSA can be destined for display in any medium; what matters is that the project be non-commercial in nature and advance knowledge of the non-profit's mission and services. Other qualification criteria apply. See info packet for details.