Online Permit Application

October 2023 Update

The California Film Commission is open, and our permit coordinators are working a hybrid remote/office schedule.  While the pandemic has eased, we advise everyone to obey all State, County, and City orders in effect regarding Covid 19 safety.  Applications will be processed on a case-by-case basis.

State Parks consider filming on a case-by-case basis.  Some parks require more lead time than others, some as much as 30 days advance application.  Contact the park first: State Park Contacts.  Contact the CFC for permit information: 323.817.4107 for Southern California State Parks; 323.817.4106 for Northern and Central California State Parks.  For more information: State Parks & Beaches Guidelines

Caltrans considers applications on a case-by-case basis.  The Statewide Film Permit Coordinators for Caltrans are working remotely.  For contact info and specific Caltrans Guidelines: Caltrans Highways & Freeways Guidelines

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation is now considering filming requests on a case-by-case basis.  See their website here: Office of Public and Employee Communications (OPEC) – CDCR.  Other State buildings and facilities will consider filming on a case-by-case basis.

Please refer to the state Safely reopening California – Coronavirus COVID-19 Response for more general information.

Contact Permit Team Manager Eric Klosterman with any questions or concerns or call 323-817-4105.

Welcome to the permit application system. You will need to create a new account to begin using the new system. Your login will be the email address that you use to create the account. You will be asked to request a key each time you want to log in. The key will be emailed to you. You will then be sent to the application home page where you can create an application or view applications you have already started or submitted. Find more helpful instructions by clicking the yellow box below.

All state permit applications must be submitted four (4) business days / 96 hours (weekends and holidays are not considered business days) prior to the first prep/shoot day.  Caltrans ramp and lane closures require a minimum of at least twelve (12) business days in advance of prep/shoot; freeway closures require a minimum of sixteen (16) business days.

Monitor Payments and Permit Issuance: The California Film Commission cannot issue permits until all estimated monitor fees and other cost recovery payments have been received by the permit staff.  This rule applies to all permit requests without exception.