CENTRAL
LOS ANGELES
Central Los Angeles is one of the most iconic filming destinations in the world, offering an incredible variety of backdrops within just a few miles.
CENTRAL LOS ANGELES
Film Locations Guide
Central L.A. offers a rich mix of iconic and diverse filming locations. From the skyscrapers and historic sites like the Bradbury Building and Los Angeles Theatre, to the modern Walt Disney Concert Hall, it’s a hub of cinematic backdrops. Gritty streets in Skid Row, vibrant Koreatown, and landmarks like Olvera Street and the Hollywood Walk of Fame capture the city’s authentic character, making it a favorite for filmmakers.”
Filming in Central Los Angeles
FilmLA manages permits for all commercial on-location filming in Central Los Angeles. To get one, you must first secure insurance that meets FilmLA’s requirements. Then, submit an application through the MyFilmLA portal at least three to seven business days in advance. After paying the application fee, you will work with a coordinator to finalize your permit, pay any remaining costs, and receive the finalized document. Having a physical copy on set is legally required. Filming without a permit can result in shutdown, fines, and even a misdemeanor charge.
Research Incentives, Subsidies & Discounts
State of California
- The State of California offers Free film permits for all California State properties. No location fees for filming on state-owned land (e.g., freeways, roads, beaches, parks, buildings, and facilities). Monitor reimbursement is typically required, even though permits and locations are free.
The California Film Commission (CFC) oversees the process and provides centralized support for all State Properties.
The (CFC) works in coordination with over 55 regional film offices across the state to ensure smooth and efficient filming logistics.
The Film Liaisons in California Statewide (FLICS) is a professional association made up of these film commissions and offices, all dedicated to promoting filming throughout California. FLICS members offer free assistance to productions, providing support with locations, permits, local resources, and regional expertise to help filmmakers navigate the process and successfully shoot across the state.
The State of California provides a film and television Tax Credit Program with a current annual allocation of $750 million. This program offers tax credits to offset qualified production expenses, encouraging film and television productions to shoot in California. The credits can be applied towards any tax liabilities within the state.
Learn more by visiting the California Film Commission for more information.
City of Los Angeles
FilmLA, a non-profit organization, serves as the official film office for the City and County of Los Angeles and an increasing number of other local municipalities in Greater Los Angeles.
FilmLA has agreements with the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) to make some off-street parking lots available for free to productions with a film permit.
FilmLA manages LocoScout an exclusive online location database featuring Los Angeles City and County public properties.
Free use of City-owned locations for filming in the City of Los Angeles. (Includes iconic spots like Los Angeles City Hall — a city permit is still required to film on City property.
Utility Nodes that Provide Affordable, Clean Electricity:  Three utility nodes have been installed to provide affordable, clean electricity to film productions as a substitute for diesel generators. Nodes are available at the Old Zoo in Griffith Park, City Hall in Downtown Los Angeles, and at the DWP John Ferraro Building. Please contact FilmL.A. to learn how you can use this service. The City has installed these utility nodes in an effort to provide a clean and quiet energy source as a substitute for diesel generators, which generate exhaust and noise pollution.
Active citations for Filming Without a Permit and Intentionally Disrupting a Permitted Film Shoot:
The Los Angeles City Council passed an ordinance that revised section 41.20 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code (LAMC) to make it a misdemeanor offense for production companies to film without a permit or engage in activities not covered by their permits. It also introduced consequences for those who would intentionally disrupt a duly-permitted film shoot or other special event. Read FilmL.A.’s article, “LAPD Using Expanded Film Permit Enforcement Powers”.
Learn more by visiting the Office of Citywide Filming for more information.
City of West Hollywood
The City of West Hollywood has officially reaffirmed its “film-friendly” status through City Council decrees, implementing plans to cut red tape, streamline permits, offer incentives, and boost local film/TV production by making it easier, faster, and more appealing for productions to film in the city, countering regional declines. This initiative, launched in mid-2025, includes digital permit upgrades, fee waivers for some, promoting existing incentives, and supporting industry partnerships to retain jobs and support local businesses.
Learn more by visiting the West Hollywood Film Office.
Research Fees, Timelines, Requirements & Restrictions
♦LOS ANGELES (3)
Basic App Fee: $931
(3) business days prior to start.
(4) business days to Post No-Parking.
(5-7) for requests involving ITC and Road Closures.
Film Permits
Jurisdiction Fees
Municipal Filming Fees List
♦WEST HOLLYWOOD (3)
Basic App Fee: $1,850
(3) business days prior to start.
(5) for requests involving public right-of-way.
Film Permits
Neighborhood-specific Requirements
*FilmLA Neighborhood Special Conditions.
Film Permit Jurisdictions
Caltrans Highways & Freeways (4)
Basic App Fee: $0
*Caltrans does charge a review fee, as well as an inspection fee for complex requests.
(4) business days prior to start.
(12) for requests involving freeway ramps and lane closures.
(16) for requests involving freeway closures.
CFC Film Permit Office
State Buildings & Facilities (4)
Basic App Fee: $0
*Buildings, and Facilities charge cost-recovery fees in order to accommodate filming.
(4) business days prior to start of prep or shoot.
*Certain activities and locations require a much longer lead time and coordination with additional state departments.
Contact the building or facility before applying.
CFC Film Permit Office
Mountians Recreation & Conservation Authority (5)
At least one week prior is standard, but applications are accepted within three business days of a shoot for +$336 upon approval. The MRCA Film Office issues filming and photography permits for all parkland managed by the MRCA. This includes open space as well as developed parkland and the Mulholland Overlooks.
Fees are unique to the size and activities of each production. Contact the MRCA for more details.
LA County Fire Department
The Public Safety & Film Unit reviews applications for filming permits, commercial still photography, annual fuel truck inspection and special effects permits. The Public Safety and Film Unit sets requirements and may conduct inspections at filming locations to ensure public safety and compliance with the Fire Code.
LA County Department of Parks and Recreation
All filming at County parks, other than non-commercial photos such as among family members, require a film permit issued by Film LA Inc., the entity authorized by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors to process film permits for all County operated facilities. This also includes film projects by students and non-profit organizations.
City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks (3)
Basic App Fee: $931.00
Wrap/Clean-up days: $150/day/park
Equipment base camp: $450/day/park
Crew Parking: $100/day/park (1-15 vehicles), $300/day/park (16+ vehicles)
There are 437 parks and 184 recreation centers that the Department manages. There is a power node
located at Griffith Park in the Upper Old Zoo area. Although each park and facility is unique, the step to filming or photography activities is the same.
Los Angeles Department of Water and Power
Filming on LADWP properties within the city, you must obtain your permit through FilmLA. This covers a wide range of locations, from modern to historical buildings, industrial settings, and reservoirs.
Los Angeles Unified School District (4)
Processing for a school license / permit requires a minimum of (4) full business days prior to the first activity date. This does not include the date of submission. Please be advised certain activities may require more advance notice.
FilmLA will help coordinate with the district to ensure you meet all specific requirements.
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