Oxnard Agency Hopes Guidebook, Web Sites Draw Filmmakers

The Greater Oxnard Economic Development Corp. is starting a major campaign to attract lucrative entertainment-industry productions to the area.

As part of the campaign, the EDC is compiling a guidebook of Oxnard sites for television and movie producers, as well as building Web pages to profile those locations.

The Web site also will have information about the permit process, and companies interested in filming in Oxnard will be able to complete and submit their permit applications online.

“The combination of the EDC’s ability to streamline the permitting process and Oxnard’s diverse locations should greatly enhance and encourage the industry’s filming in our community,” said Steve Kinney, EDC president.

The Oxnard area has served as a backdrop for television series such as “Melrose Place,” “Mike Hammer: Private Eye” and “High Tide.” Movie studios active in the area include Paramount, MGM, United Artists and Disney.

Businesses and residents interested in leasing their Oxnard locations are being asked to submit photographs and brief written descriptions of the sites. The EDC also is collecting information about prospective sound stages and vacant warehouses that could be leased for this purpose.

Information about potential filming sites should be sent to the EDC at 721 South A St., Oxnard 93030. Information is available from Elizabeth Callahan at (805) 385-7444.