City May Streamline Film-Permit Process
Seeking to lure more film and television productions to the city, the Ventura City Council on Monday will consider a streamlined permit process designed to make it easier for producers to gain city filming approval.
Under the revised filming permit ordinance, producers would no longer be required to obtain separate business licenses and land-use approvals for city-approved filming activities. An administrative review panel would allow motion picture and television producers to appeal permit denials or conditions placed on their permits.
By making the city more film friendly, officials say, the city will reap the benefits of increased local business activity and tax proceeds, while showcasing the city’s tourist areas and natural beauty.
Three years ago, the city issued just 12 permits. Last year, the number climbed to 50. City officials crafted the measure to lure more productions without impinging on the rights of local residents.
The measure would require all outdoor-filming applicants to notify all residents and businesses within 200 feet of a production site at least 48 hours in advance.
Filming between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. would require 48-hour notification for all residents and businesses within 300 feet of a film shooting site.
All pyrotechnics, fires or explosives would also require a permit from the Fire Department at least 72 hours before filming.
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