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LA looks to make film, TV and commercial shoots easier
A view of monitor during production of the indie feature film, “The Star City Murders” on July 01, 2021, in Los Angeles.
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Rodin Eckenroth
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Getty Images
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Topline:
In an effort to keep film productions in Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass on Tuesday issued an executive directive aimed at streamlining coordination, communication and availability of iconic locations for film, TV and commercial production.
What's changing: Some of the changes Bass is implementing include:
- Making it easier to shoot at highly sought-after filming locations like the Griffith Observatory and the Central Public Library, including reducing film-related fees and implementing procedures and safeguards to allow shoots to happen.
- Having city departments review processes for assigning on-site monitors and staff for shoots, and asking them to create a process that only requires one city employee to be on-site to oversee a shoot.
- Requiring LAPD, LAFD, recreation, parks and transportation officials to meet with the mayor's office monthly to resolve any issues with productions.
- Requiring departments like transportation, water and power and others involved with infrastructure projects to notify the mayor's office of any such projects that could affect frequently-used filming locations.
Why now: Bass said filming in L.A. and on city properties has become "too difficult and cost-prohibitive." She also noted the increasing competition from other states and countries that offer their own appealing tax incentives and iconic shooting locations.
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Why it matters: On-location production has been steadily declining in L.A. for years. In April, Film L.A., the official film office for L.A. and L.A. County, reported a 22.4% drop in on-location production in Greater Los Angeles through the first quarter of 2025.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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