Los Angeles
When you need a FilmLA permit to shoot in Los Angeles, the personal-photography line, and the insurance that costs more than the permit.
Guidance, not legal advice
Permit
Conditional
Issuer: FilmLA (permit coordinator for the City and County of Los Angeles)
Cost: Still-photography permit rider around $31; the motion application fee is much higher (about $931 as of mid-2024) and applies to still shoots with crews of 16 or more
Processing: Apply several business days ahead; permits release only after insurance is approved
Permits are required to film or photograph on public property in the City and County of Los Angeles. Personal or hobbyist photography that uses hand-carried gear and does not occupy or claim exclusive use of public space generally needs none. Insurance is the real gate: still photography needs at least $500,000 in general liability, more for motion, drones, or sensitive locations.
Drone / airspace
Commercial drone work requires FAA Part 107; FilmLA requires added insurance and approvals for any drone shoot
Local takeoff, landing, and park restrictions sit on top of FAA airspace rules. For Part 107, certification, and drone law, see Drone Authority.
Street / public space
Yes: you can photograph what is visible from public space in the US
Studios, private lots, and many plazas are private property and set their own rules.
Practical notes
- FilmLA coordinates many surrounding jurisdictions, but some cities inside LA County run their own permitting; confirm who controls your exact location.
- Beaches, the Port of Los Angeles, and LAX-area property carry their own higher insurance and approval requirements.
Sources
Keep shooting
Knowing the rules is half the job. The craft side: