City Guide Filming in Sherman Oaks, CA
Production Permit Fees
- FilmLA Permit Application Fee: $863
- FilmLA Permit Rider Fee: $28
Minimum Insurance
- General Liability
- Worker’s Compensation
- Automobile Liability
- Aviation Insurance Coverage
- UAS/Drone Insurance
- Product Liability Insurance
- Liquor Liability Insurance
Additional Permits
Discounts
About Sherman Oaks
Sherman Oaks is not just Judith’s turf in Two and a Half Men. The place holds within itself immense scenic beauty and a vibrant atmosphere that is not found in many other places. The Mediterranean climate of Los Angeles is prevalent here as well; prominent natural features include the Santa Monica Mountains and the San Fernando Valley. Founded in 1927, the neighborhood has become iconic over the years and its portrayal in Hollywood has been purely remarkable.
Besides the famous “Forget it, Jake. It's Sherman Oaks” line from Charlie, the area has been featured in numerous cinematic masterpieces, such as Licorice Pizza, Happy Death Day, Transformers: Dark of the Moon, The Gift, Taken, The Lincoln Lawyer, Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Terminator 2: Judgment Day, No Strings Attached, Crash, Valley Girl, This Is Spinal Tap, and The Brady Bunch Movie. These are but a handful of names that have linked the USA cinema to the neighborhood – the list is endless.
On top of some iconic local attractions like the Sherman Oaks Castle Park, Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Park, Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Pool, and Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Tennis Courts, there are numerous private venues for filming. Overall, the Hollywood vibes in the neighborhood add to the allure and charm of the area, especially for filmmakers who flock to it regularly, year-round. However, while you’re busy packing your stuff for Sherman Oaks, why not spare some minutes to understand the filming guidelines in Sherman Oaks so that you can avoid any troubles later on.
One thing is for sure though, you won’t face any trouble hooking up with the best filming destinations in Sherman Oaks, because Giggster is always here to help you connect with the top filming venues anywhere you go!
Do I Need a Filming Permit in Sherman Oaks?
Filming activity is regulated throughout Sherman Oaks, meaning that if you’re planning on using any public property for your film production activities, you’ll have to get the necessary permit to do so legally. Even when filming on private property, you'll need express written permission from the property owner for your film production activities. The filming guidelines in Sherman Oaks are rather clear and concise, but if you're still confused, you can always reach out to the FilmLA staff to see whether or not you need to file a film permit application.
Pyrotechnics Permit
if your script involves gunfire, explosions, fire-based special effects, and similar elements that come under the category of pyrotechnics, you’ll need a special permit for that, and you’ll also have to ensure on-set fire safety in liaison with the local fire department.
Animal Control Permit
if the film production involves a canid (dog or wolf) or a similar animal that must be kept on a leash and monitored to prevent any property damage or bodily injury, an animal control permit will be needed.
Aircraft Usage Permit
this applies in cases where helicopters and aircraft are part of the film production; you will also have to conduct a resident survey to make sure that locals are on board with the idea, especially if there’s a low-flying aircraft.
Student/Non-Commercial Filming Permit
film permits issued for students and non-profit filmmakers come at a discounted rate.
Drone Filming Permit
the invasion of someone’s privacy is strictly prohibited, but if you can show the authorities that your drone filming will not violate anyone’s private space, you can get a special permit for it.
Permit Management in Sherman Oaks
FilmLA
FilmLA is the main organizational body dealing with filming permits in Sherman Oaks; you can count on them for all the support you need in the matter. Not only does FilmLA make the permit acquisition process much simpler than it usually is through its online portal, but you also get access to a ton of online resources to help you understand the rules and regulations that apply specifically in your case. The My FilmLA Portal offers ease of access to the permit application process. No more having to download forms, fill them up, and then submit the filled forms to the film office in person – you can do it all from the comfort of your home and even make online card payments.
The process can’t be simpler than this, and you also get value for your money. For one, FilmLA will liaise with any local departments whose cooperation is needed on the ground, such as the police and fire departments. Then you can also benefit from their help in notifying the local community about your filming schedule. They will also help you conduct a local survey if needed and offer technical assistance for your film production activities. Overall, you can’t get a better film production partner when it comes to arranging safe access to public filming sites and ensuring continued support thereafter.
But that’s not all – there’s one more name that you need to familiarize yourself with – the California Film Commission. The CFC is an umbrella organization that only offers permits for state-owned properties (on top of offering rental-free access to state-owned sites). Even if you don't need a permit from CFC, you can still benefit from their incentive programs which help filmmakers claim partial refunds and waivers on rentals for state-owned filming sites.
What Insurance Do I Need in Sherman Oaks?
You’ll first have to provide insurance proof before you can be allowed to film anywhere in Sherman Oaks. Production insurance is the baseline requirement for all film productions as it protects the local departments and governmental offices from liability claims resulting from your actions. So, let's say that if someone gets injured or sustains property damage due to your film production activities, you will have to reimburse them for their losses, not the city or the government. This is true for both production crew members and third-party victims. While not all scripts carry a sizeable risk level that necessitates such a precautionary approach, it is still important to have the necessary insurance coverage just in case. The production insurance requirements in Sherman Oaks vary from case to case, but here’s a brief baseline overview to help you get some perspective:
First things first, you must have $1 million in general liability insurance coverage
An appropriate coverage in worker’s compensation insurance, in accordance with California’s Labor Code, is also needed
If any automobiles (owned, non-owned, or hired) are involved, a $1 million per accident liability insurance coverage is needed
An aviation insurance coverage of $5 million is needed for any helicopters or aircraft used in the film production
For UAS/drone filming, an additional $2 million in liability insurance coverage is needed
If any food is served on the set, a product liability insurance coverage of $1 million must also be presented
This also applies for any alcohol served, i.e., $1 million in liquor liability
You’ll also be required to name the County of Los Angeles as additionally insured and may even have to get coverage for other things too. The extent of your insurance coverage depends heavily on the nature of the script – if there are risks involved, then you’ll have to show the local governing body that you are fully prepared.
If you can’t meet any of these requirements, you’ll need to explain in writing why you can’t meet the requirement to the Office. They will determine if the shoot can go ahead without the necessary insurance.
Note that these requirements are minimum requirements. Larger and more complex shoots may require additional insurance which will be determined by the Office.
What Kind of Filming Locations Are Available in Sherman Oaks?
After going through the basics of the filming laws in Sherman Oaks, you’re probably wondering about your options here. If you were expecting premium filming venues with a huge variety, you won’t be disappointed, as this is exactly what Sherman Oaks offers. The Modern and Techie Green Screen Studio is a perfect example of how film-friendly Sherman Oaks is. You also have options like Modern and Bright Beauty Studio, which combine perfect contrast, well-lit interiors, and premium furnishing. Another perfect option in this purpose-built category is the Upscale SFV Fantasy Creative Studio which also comes with a kitchen for food-based video production.
Moving away from such purpose-built establishments, we get places like the Private Mid-century Modern Home, which is no less than a peek into the past with its historic themed setting. The house comes as a package deal with a garden and office. You also have the Cozy Living Room Couch Set, which again gives a homely feeling with its theme and setting. Another similar option is the Dream Home On The Hills, which not only offers an impeccably designed interior but also breathtaking views of the cityscape and surrounding natural elements that embrace it.
The Studio City Hills Home is another mention-worthy filming venue as it comes with a private gym and offers remarkable views of the city. Similarly, the Stunning & Colorful Home venue is worth a look as it offers not only a well-lit and properly furnished interior but also panoramic displays of the surrounding landscape through its windows and balcony. Or you may want to move away from the comfort of residential spaces, studios, and business venues turned into film studios – if so, you can try the Tropical Jungle filming destination, which also offers a pool and campsite.
The choices are nearly endless and we’ve barely scratched the surface here, mentioning only some of the most frequently visited spots. You can always count on Giggster to help you identify the best hosts and rent filming venues for reasonable rates!
Special Requirements in Sherman Oaks
Filming At Local School Districts
You can shoot your film project in one of the many school districts in the area, such as the Armenian Evangelical Schools, Sherman Oaks Elementary Charter, and Riverside Drive Elementary Charter Start School. However, before doing so, you'll first have to reach out to the school board with your proposal and discuss your filming schedule and details. You'll also be required to present insurance evidence for $1 million in general liability for the scheduled shoot's duration. Once you get approval from the school's administration, you can go ahead with your FilmLA application, get your permit, and begin your film production activities on the agreed-upon terms.
Filming At Local Parks And Public Attractions
Sherman Oaks is home to many public attractions and parks, such as the Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Park, which houses tons of recreational elements for people of all ages and an outdoor pool as well. Similarly, the Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Tennis Courts Facility is an iconic spot in the area. Another famous public attraction is the Sherman Oaks Castle Park which houses numerous arcades, miniature golf courses, and more. While getting exclusive access to any of these is not guaranteed, you can still ask for permission to film in these areas from the local management. You will have to provide insurance coverage of $1 million in general liability and share details of all anticipated activities. Once you get your approval, the rest is the same. However, you will have to pay entry fees and parking fees where applicable, and the park management may ask you to hire a staff member to monitor all filming activities.
Filming At The Los Encinos State Historic Park
The nearby Los Encinos State Historic Park is home to elusive wildlife and relics of the past not seen elsewhere. It is managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation, as is the case with all state parks. To be allowed to film here, you’ll first have to get approval from the parks department and then file a permit application with the California Film Commission. After fulfilling all the insurance requirements, you’ll get your CFC permit for free. The site rental will also be waived, but you will have to pay for parking, entry fees, and monitoring fees for any park officials needed on the set.
Special Permission Requirements
If your filming involves any unusual or sudden noises/disturbances, you’ll first have to report such anticipated activities in advance to the LAPD. These include:
The use of helicopters/aircraft
The use of pyrotechnics, explosives, fire-based special effects, etc.
The use of gunfire sounds and effects.
Serving Meals To The Production Crew In Public
You are not allowed, under any circumstance, to serve meals to your film production crew members in public. Instead, you must do so out of public view, i.e., indoors or inside an enclosure.
Regulations Concerning Generator Noise
Generator noise is one of the elements where the local filming laws in Sherman Oaks are very strict. There is a no-tolerance policy here – you also need to cut down on any unnecessary disturbance and report sudden noises or bangs to the LAPD in advance to avoid any trouble.
Filming Beyond The Regular Hours
Film production crews usually have between 7:00 AM and 10:00 PM for all production activities, including setting up the stage, packing up, and more. You can request an extension of this time limit, but this is only possible once you've conducted a local resident survey with a positive outcome.
What Does it Cost to Film in Sherman Oaks?
The filming regulations in Sherman Oaks clearly state the costs involved in filming fees and dues payable as compensation for any departmental services rendered. This means that you’ll have a very clear idea of what to expect, money-wise, when you’re filing a permit application with FilmLA. Do keep in mind that these fees are on top of the filming expenses and site rentals.
Additional Fees
15% of all the above fees are charged as an administrative fee if any city official is needed on the filming set. These costs may seem excessive, but you also get value for your money, and FilmLA will go to any extent to help you throughout your film production schedule. Plus, you can also get financial assistance via the incentives offered by the California Film Commission.
Geographical Jurisdiction of Sherman Oaks?
The geographical bounds of Sherman Oaks are not very clear on the map, but you still need to understand the extent of the neighborhood because the filming laws in Sherman Oaks only apply there. To the east, Sherman Oaks is bordered by Studio City. Van Nuys borders the northern side of the neighborhood, while Encino takes the western border. The southern boundary is marked by Beverly Hills Post Office and Bel Air.
Outreach in Sherman Oaks
You don’t have to go door to door as per the filming regulations in Sherman Oaks. Instead, you only need to notify the local affected community of your film production schedule and anticipated activities two days in advance. FilmLA will help you notify all the affected residents and business owners. However, if you want to shoot beyond the normal time limits (like late at night), want to use the same public space for more than three consecutive days, or want exclusive access to a street or right of way, you'll have to conduct a local survey and get a positive outcome before you are given such relaxations.
Community Management in Sherman Oaks
Overall, Sherman Oaks is described as an affluent area with an urban feel, but most people here are renting. The locals are by no means strangers to film productions or Hollywood but don't approve of being disturbed, especially when it comes to noise. People here also value their privacy. If you respect that, you won't have to deal with any trouble.
Conclusion
Sherman Oaks is not lacking in any area when it comes to offering the full package to filmmakers – it is truly a catch! With so many filming venues, themed and regular, indoor and outdoor, luxurious and simple, you can’t miss out on what you think might work best for your script. Also, since the neighborhood has long seen successful films made here, yours won’t be the first cinematic journey that happens in this part of town. Plus, the filming guidelines in Sherman Oaks, as we have seen, are very film-production-friendly, meaning that you won’t have much trouble getting your permit and even afterward, as the FilmLA staff is always willing to help in all capacities. Couple this with the incentives offered by the California Film Commission, which include partial refunds on filming expenses, and you’ve got the perfect film production package here with all the pomp and splendor of Hollywood.