USA – Los Angeles

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in USA – Los Angeles, facilitating international productions of every scale with a full range of services, including location scouting, obtaining permits, full range of logistic support and connecting production teams with local talent and experienced crew.

Ultimate Filming Guide for USA – Los Angeles

Capital

N/A (city, not country/state capital)

Main Cities

Long Beach, Anaheim, Santa Monica, Pasadena

Local Languages

English, Spanish

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Climate

Mediterranean

General Visa Requirements:

Most citizens require a visa (Non-Immigrant Visa for temporary stays or Immigrant Visa for residence).

Required Documents:

Valid passport
Completed visa application (DS-160 for NIV)
Proof of employment/contract & itinerary
Invitation letter
Proof of financial support
Specific requirements for O visa (individuals with extraordinary ability) or P visa (performers & crews).

Visa Application Process:

For more information on the visa application process, you can visit the US Visa Application page.

Processing Time:

2-6 weeks

Cost:

$460

Accreditation Requirements:

Film crew members working in the USA often need accreditation from relevant industry organizations, such as the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) or the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). Additionally, permits, licenses, or certifications may be required, depending on the role or location.

Required Documents:

To apply for crew accreditation, film professionals generally need the following:

Valid Passport
Proof of Employment or Contract with a US-based production company
Resume/Curriculum Vitae demonstrating relevant experience
Proof of Qualifications or Certifications as needed for the specific role
Completed Accreditation Application Forms for the relevant accrediting body (e.g., IATSE, SAG-AFTRA).

Processing Time:

2-4 weeks

Cost:

$300 – $600

Issuing Organization:

Local film commissions, city/county offices.
In Los Angeles: FilmLA.

Required Documents:

Shooting schedule & maps
Proof of liability insurance
Cast & crew lists
Equipment lists
Completed permit form

Processing Time:

2–30 days

Cost:

$500–$5,000

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Location scouts/fixers secure, negotiate, and arrange logistics.
Communication handled between production and property owner/manager.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Custom-quoted per project needs.

Drone Regulations:

Register with FAA.
Obtain Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
Follow FAA restrictions (line of sight, altitude, speed, people proximity).

Drone Importation Regulations:

Compliance with FAA and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Proper labeling & documentation required.

Permit Issuance:

FAA (Certificates of Authorization / waivers).

Timing:

60–90+ days

Cost:

Permits are free.
FAA Part 107 certificate: $150–$300.

Carnet Status:

The USA is an ATA Carnet country.

Required Documents:

Commercial invoice
Packing list
Certificate of origin
ATA Carnet
CBP Form 7501
Equipment list (serial numbers, values)
Proof of insurance
Passport

Issuing Organization:

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Timing:

A few hours to several days depending on shipment

Cost:

$500–$2,500

General Overview:

Strong film infrastructure, skilled crews, film-friendly states and cities.
State-of-the-art facilities.

Security Requirements:

Recommended: professional security firms.
Options: off-duty police, private guards, risk management specialists.
High-profile or large-scale productions especially advised to use security.

Rebates/Incentives:

Incentives are state-level, not federal.
California Film & TV Tax Credit Program:
Up to 35% transferable tax credit depending on production type.
Annual cap: $750 million (from July 2025).
Bonuses for local hiring, VFX, and relocating TV shows.
Other states (Georgia, New Mexico, Nevada, etc.) also offer competitive credits.