L.A. City Council Unanimously Approves Measures to Boost Film Production
The Los Angeles City Council has unanimously approved a set of seven measures designed to enhance local film and television production by streamlining permitting processes and addressing related fee structures. This action follows calls from industry professionals to revitalize the city's entertainment sector, which has experienced production levels below historical averages.
Council Backs Industry Calls for Revitalization
On Wednesday, the Los Angeles City Council gave its unanimous approval to seven proposals aimed at improving conditions for film and television production within the city. Introduced by Councilmember Adrin Nazarian, these measures seek to simplify permitting and adjust fees.
The council's decision came after a public comment period where numerous local film and television workers and union leaders, including SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Local President Joely Fisher, emphasized the urgent need to revitalize the local entertainment industry.
Production in Los Angeles has been observed at levels significantly lower than five-year averages, with competition for projects emerging from other jurisdictions nationally and internationally.
Streamlining and Fee Adjustments: The Approved Directives
The approved initiatives include directives for city departments to take the following actions:
- Expedite soundstage certification processes.
- Require city departments to report compliance with Mayor Karen Bass’ 2025 executive order on filming.
- Initiate an independent audit of the city’s permitting system, including FilmLA.
- Implement free “microshoot” permits for productions involving 10 or fewer people.
- Facilitate agreements with surrounding Los Angeles counties and cities to standardize permit regulations.
- Mandate the city’s tourism department to develop a "Made in L.A." branding campaign concept.
- Collaborate on simplifying best practices and rules to unify filming conditions across the city.
- Expand access to public facilities.
- Assess existing fees related to production.
Industry Voices: Hopes and Concerns
During the public commentary, industry workers and union representatives shared various perspectives on the current state of local production. An IATSE member cited a critical need for increased work within the entertainment sector.
Carlo Perez, business manager for Local 755 of the plasterers, sculptors, and shop hands union, noted instances of productions filming in other states and then replacing license plates for scenes set in California, advocating for the preservation of local production.
A producer also highlighted Los Angeles's unparalleled talent pool as a key asset.
Some union representatives, including Thom Davis, president of the California IATSE Council, requested involvement in future discussions and consideration for labor and safety standards. Concurrently, advocates for downtown L.A., such as DTLA Alliance president Suzanne Holley and Councilmember Ysabel Jurado, voiced concerns regarding the potential impact of reforms on neighborhood residents and businesses. Councilmember Nazarian stated a commitment to addressing these concerns.
Scrutiny on FilmLA
FilmLA, an independent organization responsible for assisting productions with city permitting, has been a subject of discussion, with some local workers describing the current system as complicated and expensive. During the council meeting, Councilmember Nazarian acknowledged these concerns and affirmed the council's oversight of the agency, stating that FilmLA exists to serve the city's interests.
Next Steps: Phases and Timelines
These seven measures represent "Phase 1" of a broader effort to rejuvenate local production by addressing perceived negative factors. A subsequent "Phase 2" is anticipated to focus on proactive strategies designed to attract film and television projects back to the city.
Councilmember Nazarian has also introduced additional motions, currently under committee review, which propose new production incentive programs and fee waivers. Local agencies have been allocated a timeframe of 45 to 180 days to implement the directives passed by the city council.