L.A. Aims to Lower Production Costs by Requiring Only One City Staffer on Film Sets

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LA Mayor, Karen Bass, intends to lower production expenses by enforcing the presence of just one city official on movie and television set locations.

On Tuesday, I’ll be part of a move that will simplify the permit procedure for movie productions. As things stand now, various city personnel – such as firefighters and off-duty or retired law enforcement officers – might be tasked with monitoring film sets. This executive order is aimed at making this process more efficient.

Political figures are seeking methods to enhance Los Angeles’ appeal as a filming location, given that the entertainment industry is experiencing a worldwide decline in production.

Bass declared that the city is making decisive moves to bolster our traditional sector. He emphasized that maintaining film production within Los Angeles ensures the continuation of well-paying jobs here, which is a cause we are committed to defending.

Previously, our city council asked officials to come up with strategies for streamlining and making the permit process both more effective and price-competitive. This task also involved considering potential reductions in the number of public safety personnel.

City-controlled properties generally allow filming without charge. Nevertheless, securing authorization for shooting at popular landmarks like the Griffith Observatory or the Central Library can sometimes prove challenging.

Bass’ decree proposes setting rules for well-known locations, expediting review periods, and decreasing fees as part of its provisions.

Councilman Adrin Nazarian has additionally proposed taking action to penalize parking lot operators who exploit prices during film productions. Some within the industry argue that these operators demand exorbitant rental rates for crew parking spaces, but it remains uncertain if there is legal recourse available for such practices.

The “friendliness towards films” has been a long-standing matter of concern at Los Angeles City Hall. Elected officials often find themselves under pressure to cater to this significant sector of the industry. Mayor James Hahn addressed this issue by issuing an order in February 2004, aiming to simplify the permit approval process.

He stated back then, as reported in a 2004 Hollywood Reporter article, ‘We’ve tackled this issue before.’ Many have replied, ‘Oh, we’re familiar; been there, done that. But what came of it?’ We are committed to ensuring that the ideas and plans we create won’t just be proposals but will actually be carried out.

The California Legislature is considering increasing the annual state tax incentive for movie and television production from $330 million to a potential $750 million.

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2025-05-20 18:48