Los Angeles, January 19, 2026
In a significant move to rejuvenate its film and television sector, Los Angeles is streamlining the permitting process and enhancing financial incentives to attract productions. The city council has approved measures to expedite film permits and reduce costs, while Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass have expanded the Film and TV Tax Credit Program by $750 million. This initiative aims to combat a recent 13.2% decline in production activity and reinforce Los Angeles’ status as a leading entertainment hub.
Los Angeles Takes Bold Steps to Revitalize Film Industry
City initiatives aim to streamline production and restore local dominance in entertainment
Los Angeles – In a concerted effort to rejuvenate the city’s film and television industry, Los Angeles officials have implemented several initiatives aimed at streamlining the permitting process, reducing costs, and bolstering local production. These measures come in response to a notable decline in production activity and the urgent need to retain the city’s status as a global entertainment hub.
Streamlined Permitting and Fee Reductions
The Los Angeles City Council has unanimously approved a motion to expedite film permitting, expand access to city-owned properties for shoots, and reduce associated costs. This initiative seeks to address bureaucratic hurdles and financial burdens that have been identified as significant obstacles to local production. By making the permitting process more efficient, Los Angeles aims to revitalize local filming and restore its competitiveness in the industry.
Expansion of Film and TV Tax Credit Program
In a strategic move to enhance the film industry’s profitability, Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass have announced the successful passage of a $750 million expansion of the Film and TV Tax Credit Program. This historic increase aims to bolster Los Angeles’ signature industry by providing substantial financial incentives to attract and retain film and television productions within the state. The expanded program is expected to have a significant positive impact on the overall health of the film and television industry in California, promoting job creation and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Executive Actions to Support Local Production
Mayor Bass has proactively issued Executive Directive 11 to support the local entertainment industry. This directive eases the process for studios and independent producers to shoot movies, television shows, and commercials in Los Angeles by lowering costs and streamlining the on-location filming process. Additionally, the directive increases access to some of the city’s most iconic locations, further enhancing Los Angeles’ appeal as a premier filming destination.
Addressing Declining Production Activity
Recent reports indicate a 13.2% decline in film production in Los Angeles County during the third quarter of 2025 compared to the previous year. This downturn has been attributed to various factors, including increased competition from other states and countries offering more attractive incentives. The city’s new initiatives aim to reverse this trend by making Los Angeles a more competitive and appealing location for film and television productions while fostering a resilient economy.
Background Context
Los Angeles has long been the epicenter of the global entertainment industry. However, in recent years, the city has faced challenges in maintaining its dominance due to rising production costs and more favorable incentives offered elsewhere. In response, local government officials have been working to implement policies that streamline the permitting process, reduce costs, and provide financial incentives to attract and retain productions within the city. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to support the local economy and preserve the cultural significance of Los Angeles as a center for film and television production.
Key Features of the Recent Initiatives
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Streamlined Permitting and Fee Reductions | Los Angeles City Council approved a motion to expedite film permitting, expand access to city-owned properties for shoots, and reduce associated costs to address bureaucratic hurdles and financial burdens on local production. |
| Expansion of Film and TV Tax Credit Program | Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass announced a $750 million expansion of the Film and TV Tax Credit Program to provide substantial financial incentives to attract and retain film and television productions within California. |
| Executive Directive 11 | Mayor Bass issued Executive Directive 11 to lower costs and streamline processes for on-location filming, increasing access to iconic locations and enhancing Los Angeles’ appeal as a filming destination. |
| Addressing Declining Production Activity | Recent reports indicate a 13.2% decline in film production in Los Angeles County during Q3 2025 compared to the previous year, prompting new initiatives to reverse this trend and make Los Angeles more competitive. |
Conclusion
The initiatives implemented by Los Angeles officials signal a robust commitment to revitalizing the film and television industry. By streamlining regulations and enhancing financial incentives, the city is establishing itself as a viable and competitive location for production. As local entrepreneurs and small businesses respond to these changes, the potential for economic growth and community engagement is substantial. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to support local businesses and stay informed about ongoing developments in Los Angeles’s economic landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What recent initiatives have been implemented to support film production in Los Angeles?
The Los Angeles City Council has approved a motion to streamline film permitting, expand access to city-owned properties for shoots, and reduce associated costs. Additionally, Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass have announced a $750 million expansion of the Film and TV Tax Credit Program to bolster the local industry. Mayor Bass has also issued Executive Directive 11 to lower costs and streamline processes for on-location filming. These measures aim to make Los Angeles a more competitive and appealing location for film and television productions.
How has the film production activity in Los Angeles changed recently?
Recent reports indicate a 13.2% decline in film production in Los Angeles County during the third quarter of 2025 compared to the previous year. This downturn has been attributed to various factors, including increased competition from other states and countries offering more attractive incentives. The city’s new initiatives aim to reverse this trend by making Los Angeles a more competitive and appealing location for film and television productions.
What is Executive Directive 11 issued by Mayor Bass?
Executive Directive 11, issued by Mayor Karen Bass, makes it easier for studios and independent producers to shoot movies, television shows, and commercials in Los Angeles by lowering costs and streamlining processes for on-location filming. The directive also increases access to some of the city’s most iconic locations, further enhancing the appeal of Los Angeles as a filming destination.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Warm Winter Weather Persists in Southern California
Hollywood Walk of Fame Declared World’s ‘Worst’ Tourist Attraction
Los Angeles Records Unexpectedly Warm Temperatures During Wind Advisory
Venice Shorts Film Festival and Community Events Boost Local Culture
Historic Hollywood Motel Destroyed by Fire; Resident Rescued
Historic Hollywood Center Motel Destroyed by Fire
Tragic Events and Heartwarming Rescue in Los Angeles
Court Orders Sealing of Autopsy Reports in Reiner Case
Los Angeles Unveils Giant ‘Home Alone’ Gingerbread House
President Trump’s Controversial Remarks Spark Outrage Over Rob Reiner’s Death
Author: STAFF HERE LOS ANGELES WRITER
The LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELosAngeles.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, and beyond, specializing in "news you can use" with coverage of product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates, while delivering top reporting on high-value events like the Academy Awards, LA Auto Show, and Los Angeles Marathon, extending coverage to key organizations such as the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, plus leading businesses in entertainment and technology like Warner Bros. and SpaceX, and as part of the broader HERE network including HEREAnaheim.com , HERECostaMesa.com , HEREHuntingtonBeach.com , and HERESantaAna.com , providing comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape. HERE Anaheim HERE Beverly Hills HERE Coronado HERE Costa Mesa HERE Hollywood HERE Huntington Beach HERE Long Beach HERE Los Angeles HERE Mission Viejo HERE San Diego HERE Santa Ana
