FilmLA to Allow Some Projects to Skip Fees, Inspections With ‘Low Impact’ Permit Program

After months of research and focus group sessions, FilmLA has launched a new system for “low impact” film shoots, allowing some indie productions to get their location permits approved with significantly reduced fees and without having to wait for lengthy safety inspections.

The program has been launched in response to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’ Executive Directive 11, which calls on all city departments and partners to streamline L.A.’s permitting process and to make the city a more attractive place for film and TV production amidst immense global competition and a drastic decrease in project greenlights from Hollywood. The number of shoot days in Los Angeles in 2025 fell 16% year-over-year to below 20,000, and shoot days recorded in all major film and television categories 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,” Board of Public Works President and City Film Liaison Steve Kang said.

“FilmLA, as the City’s partner in film permitting and production coordination, plays a central role in that effort,” he continued. “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.”