FilmLA Launches 'Low Impact' Permit Program to Streamline Indie Film Shoots in L.A.

FilmLA, the organization responsible for film permitting in Los Angeles, has launched a new ‘low impact’ permit program designed to streamline location permits for qualifying indie productions. The initiative allows some projects to secure approvals with reduced fees and without lengthy safety inspections.

The program was introduced in response to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’ Executive Directive 11, which mandates city departments to simplify permitting processes and enhance L.A.’s appeal as a filming destination amid intense global competition. Recent data shows a significant decline in local production activity, with shoot days in 2025 dropping 16% year-over-year to below 20,000. Across all major film and television categories, shoot days were at least 30% below the five-year average.

“The City of Los Angeles, under the leadership of Mayor Karen Bass, is leaving no stone unturned in its commitment to support our signature entertainment industry.”

Steve Kang, Board of Public Works President and City Film Liaison

“FilmLA, as the City’s partner in film permitting and production coordination, plays a central role in that effort. Improving affordability for filming in Los Angeles remains a top priority. I want to thank the FilmLA Board for its leadership and financial support of this first-of-its-kind incentive. This pilot program goes beyond reducing permit costs. 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.”

The six-month pilot program targets productions classified as ‘low impact,’ meaning they have minimal disruption to residents and FilmLA’s permitting workflows. Eligible projects can skip city department sign-offs and avoid fees for unnecessary inspections. To qualify, a production must meet the following criteria:

• No more than three filming locations over three consecutive days;
• No more than 30 combined cast and crew members on set per shooting day;
• Avoid prohibited locations and activities that typically require safety inspections.

FilmLA estimates that 30% of permit applications received over the past three years would have qualified for the ‘low impact’ permit. The organization anticipates this share will grow as more productions adopt the system. Small-scale film/TV shoots, new media content, and home-based studio projects are expected to comprise the majority of applicants.

However, the program includes several key limitations. Prohibited locations and activities for ‘low impact’ shoots include:

• City property and recreational facilities;
• Hillside areas and mountain fire zones;
• Driving shoots on public roads;
• Buildings taller than four stories;
• Shoots in neighborhoods with special restrictions.