Film Permits

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Welcome to Palm Springs — "Like No Place Else"

Palm Springs has been Hollywood’s desert escape and filming destination since the 1930s. With its dramatic landscapes, iconic mid-century modern architecture, and year-round sunshine, the city continues to be a favorite location for filmmakers, photographers, and production crews. Just under two hours from Los Angeles and boasting over 350 days of sunshine annually, Palm Springs is the ideal location for your next shoot.

Why Film in Palm Springs?
Whether you're capturing a snow-capped mountain, a mid-century masterpiece, or a serene desert oasis, Palm Springs offers a wide variety of visually striking settings. The city is home to upscale resorts, stylish restaurants, unique neighborhoods, and scenic backdrops—making it a versatile and vibrant filming destination.

Film Permitting in Palm Springs
Do I Need a Permit?
Yes. A Film Permit is required for all filming activity on both public and private property within the City of Palm Springs, unless you are filming in a licensed film studio.

How to Apply
Step 1: Contact the Film Office
Call the Palm Springs Film Office at (760) 323-8272 to request an application or discuss your project. Applications should be submitted at least three (3) business days before your scheduled shoot.
You may also download the permit application here.

Step 2: Insurance Requirements
Proof of $1 million in liability insurance is required, naming the City of Palm Springs, its officials, and representatives as additional insured.
Student projects must provide insurance through their educational institution.
Download insurance requirements and sample forms here.

Step 3: Review & Regulations
The Film Officer will assess your project and determine if any special conditions apply, such as the need for:

Law enforcement personnel (billed separately by Palm Springs Police Department)

Fire safety advisers (reviewed by Palm Springs Fire Department)

Additional applications may be required for fire services. Contact the Fire Department at (760) 323-8181 for more details.

General Guidelines
Filming Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Notification: You must notify all residents and businesses within a 300-foot radius at least 72 hours in advance via written letter (do not place in mailboxes).

Your Notification Letter Must Include:
Production company name

Type of production (e.g., commercial, feature film)

Production title

Filming dates and times

Description of filming activity and potential impact

Contact information for both the production and Film Office

Required Note for Letter:

"If you have any questions or concerns, please call (contact name) at (phone number), or the City of Palm Springs Film Office at (760) 323-8272."

Leave the letter at the front door if no one is home. Do not place it in mailboxes (federal law prohibits this).

Film Fees

Production Type	Application Fee	Location Fee
Still Photography	$92 per production	$18 per day
Motion Picture/TV/Commercials	$184 per production	$49 per day or $245 per 7-day week

Unique Filming Locations in Palm Springs

Iconic mid-century modern homes

Upscale resorts & fine dining

Golf courses & tennis courts

Palm Springs International Airport

Palm Springs Stadium & Convention Center

Desert and mountain vistas

Botanical gardens & Indian Canyons

Wind farms, casinos, and more