This is read by an automated voice. Please report any issues or inconsistencies here.
Los Angeles will soon offer reduced-cost filming permits for shoots that demonstrate a "low impact" to the surrounding community, a move that comes as the city tries to lure more production.
The cost of film permits shooting at three or fewer locations will be reduced by as much as 58%, according to the nonprofit FilmLA, which tracks production days in the greater L.A. region and is helping to fund the pilot program for up to six months.
The current standard permit fee is $931. The fee for a low-impact permit is $350.
Projects considered "low impact" will typically have a small cast and crew of 30 people or fewer and be able to fit their cars into parking areas on private property. These projects also will not have filming activities requiring public safety oversight from city workers and are usually smaller budget productions.
The pilot program, which is a partnership between FilmLA and the city of L.A., starts April 27.
"We believe that when community impact is small, regardless of the project type or production budget, the city and FilmLA review process should be simple," FilmLA Chief Executive Denise Gutches said in a statement Tuesday. "With this pilot program, the city will offer low impact filmmakers full permit protections at the lowest possible cost."
As part of the partnership, the city will waive collection of its Los Angeles Fire Department spot check fee.
"This pilot program goes beyond reducing permit costs," Board of Public Works President and City Film Liaison Steve Kang said in a statement. "It serves as a real world test of practical reforms and a tiered pricing model designed to make Los Angeles more accessible and competitive for creators at every level."
News of the pilot program come as filming in L.A. has become one of the issues in the upcoming mayoral race, in which Mayor Karen Bass faces a tough re-election battle. Bass and her challengers have all attempted to portray themselves as the candidate of change.
