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L.A. City Council Approves First Phase of Film-Permitting Reforms

City leaders move to cut red tape by ordering an audit of FilmLA to pave the way for simpler, cheaper shoots.

Overview

  • Councilmember Adrin Nazarian’s seven-motions package won unanimous approval, marking a first step to keep production from leaving Los Angeles.
  • Actions include free permits for microshoots with 10 or fewer people, faster soundstage certification, eliminating certain neighborhood special conditions, and harmonizing rules across jurisdictions.
  • City departments must report on compliance with Mayor Karen Bass’s filming executive order, and the tourism office will develop a “Made in L.A.” branding option for end credits.
  • The council asked the city controller to audit FilmLA and the permitting system, including the agency’s contract; FilmLA’s CEO said the group will work with the city.
  • Larger proposals were left for later, including changes to police and fire procedures and a plan on costs at some city facilities, as workers and unions pressed for action and agencies face 45–180 days to implement the new directives.