SANTA CLARITA VALLEY
The Santa Clarita Valley is a major filming destination, known as "Hollywood North" for its wide variety of locations, production studios, and movie ranches.
SANTA CLARITA VALLEY
Location Scouting Guide
Santa Clarita has been a prominent filming location for decades, thanks to its versatile landscapes and specialized movie ranches, which have attracted numerous productions. The region’s history as a film-making hub, once dubbed “New Hollywood” during the silent film era, continues today thanks to its proximity to Los Angeles and its variety of filming-friendly locations.
Santa Clarita Valley
Film Permits
Any filming on public or private property within the City of Santa Clarita requires a film permit, except for news crews, family video recordings, or productions filmed entirely on a certified sound stage. The permit process involves more than just filling out an application—applicants must provide proof of liability insurance with the required endorsement, submit payment, and obtain permission from the property owner. Depending on the size and impact of the production, additional requirements such as traffic control plans, neighborhood signature surveys, or coordination with local agencies may also be necessary.
Research Incentives, Subsidies, and Discounts
City Of Santa Clarita
The City of Santa Clarita has a great Film Incentive Program.
Hyatt Regency Valencia
The Hyatt Regency Valencia offers discounts to guests in the Film Industry.
Research Fees, Timelines, Requirements & Restrictions
City Of Santa Clarita (3)
Basic App Fee: $511
(3) business days prior to start.
Film Permits
Jurisdiction Fees
Municipal Filming Fees List
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
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 Parks & 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.
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.
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