FILM PERMITS

68700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero
Cathedral City, CA 92234
Main: 760.770.0340
www.cathedralcity.gov

Hours:
8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday

Visitors say that Cathedral City’s festivals and special events continually draw them back to this “Most Livable” city; a hometown vibe, desert flora and scenic golf courses make them want to stay. The Festival Lawn and the new Cathedral City Community Amphitheater play host to many popular events including the Cathedral City Hot Air Balloon Festival, Taste of Jalisco and LGBT Days. The historic Cathedral City Cove neighborhood, once home to renowned artists like Agnes Pelton, remains a vibrant artist community.

Contacts
Planning Department, planning@cathedralcity.gov, 760.770.0340
 

Permits
Processing Time: It is advisable to submit applications for review 30 days prior to commencement of the use or event to ensure adequate review of the application.

Fees: Still photography $1,030 plus $309/day or $1,030/weekly; Motion $1,030 plus $309/day or $1,030/week.

Insurance
Minimum $1million dollar general liability

Police/Sheriff/Fire: Assessed on case-by-case basis

1515 Sixth Street
Coachella, CA 92236
Main: 760.398.3502
www.coachella.org

Hours:
7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Thursday
Closed Friday

Perched at the easternmost edge of the valley, Coachella is abundant in fresh fruit, vegetables and local dates from the surrounding fields and groves. The city boasts art, history and culture in the heart of downtown at Pueblo Viejo.  There, you can take a walking tour of the vibrant Coachella Walls street mural project and see the Casa de Trabajador where famous Latino-American civil rights activist Cesar Chavez spent time organizing farmworkers. This growing, family-oriented community is also home to the Coachella Boxing Club and several spacious parks. The 1,400-foot-long community Shady Lane Mural across from Dateland Park is a must-see.

Contacts
Risseth Lora, rlora@coachella.org, 760.398.4978
Gabriel Perez, Development Services Director, gperez@coachella.org, 760.398.3102

Permits
Processing Time: 1-5 business days
Fees: None
Still photography $50 per day, $100 annual fee, and $500 bond
Motion: Flat fee of $120

Insurance
Minimum $1 million dollar liability

Police/Sheriff: At cost, determined by City and Riverside County Sheriff’s Department/Coachella Police Department.

Fire: At cost, as determined by City and Riverside County Fire Department

Road Encroachment Permit: Assessed on case-by-case basis

City of Desert Hot Springs 
11999 Palm Drive 
Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240 
Main: (760) 329-6411 
www.cityofdhs.org 
  

Hours: 
7:00 am – 6:00 pm, Monday – Thursday 
Closed Fridays 

Sitting over one of the world’s finest natural hot mineral water aquifers, Desert Hot Springs boasts nearly three dozen health spas and spa hotels, ranging from retro-hip motels to family-style resorts and ultra-luxury retreats. Desert Hot Springs is purported to be an “Earth Energy Vortex” where five natural energy sources converge. The Hopi-inspired Cabot’s Pueblo Museum, public art installations, and murals are popular attractions. 

Contacts: 
Community Development Department, Planning Division 
(760) 329-6411 

planning@cityofdhs.org 

Permits: 
Applications: Submit at least 10 business days prior to production; however, permits can be expedited if necessary. All applications are digital and can be accessed here: https://www.cityofdhs.org/filming-in-desert-hot-springs/ 
 

Processing Time: 5-10 business days 

Fees (as of 7/3/24): 

• Film Permit (Minor): $267.54 application fee + $15 daily location fee + actual costs. 
• Film Permit (Major): $689.43 application fee + $25 daily location fee + actual costs. 

Insurance: 

General Liability in the amount of $1,000,000 per occurrence; property damage insurance $50,000. The City must be listed as additional insured if located on City property or in the right-of-way. 

Police Department: Assessed on a case-by-case basis. Call (760) 329-2904 

Fire Department: Assessed on a case-by-case basis. Call (760) 329-5123 

Road Encroachment Permit: Charges vary depending upon complexity of street closure. 

44950 Eldorado Drive
Indian Wells, CA 92210
Main: 760.346.2489
www.cityofindianwells.org

Hours:
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, closed 12 - 1 p.m. for lunch.

Nestled in a cove of the Santa Rosa Mountains, the city of Indian Wells, California, blossoms with palm trees, gardens, and lush, breathtaking scenery in all directions and features some of Greater Palm Springs’ most luxurious resorts offering world-class dining, spas, and meeting facilities—yet is just a 20-minute drive from the Palm Springs International Airport.

World-class cultural and sporting events and attractions, including the BNP Paribas Open, bring the best tennis players in the world to the city each year. 36 holes of championship golf invite visitors to tee off where the likes of Arnold Palmer and President Dwight D. Eisenhower once played. And with its unmatched collection of spectacular accommodations and pampering spas, the options for finding your own oasis are as endless as the city’s pristine views and blue skies. The Living Desert Zoo and Garden is located in both Indian Wells and Palm Desert.

Contact
Jesse Jimenez (City permit questions, review and issuance), jjimenez@indianwells.com
Samuel Thompson (location/site visits), samuelt@visitgreaterps.com

Permits
Processing Time: (Variable) upon submittal of complete application. Projects requiring police and fire review/conditioning may take up to two weeks for processing.
Apply: Self Service Portal
Fee: Fee estimator is provided in the Indian Wells Permit Hub.
City permits are required for filming on public and private property.

Insurance
Variable and assessed on a case-by-case basis

Police/Sheriff/Fire
Assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Aerial
The City allows certified drone camera use:
Drone Insurance requirements are as follows:
$1 million General Liability
$1 million Automobile Liability
$1 million Workers Comp
$1 million Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)
* Not permitted: neither manned helicopters nor low flying airplanes are permitted for filming and special events.

100 Civic Center Mall
Indio, CA 92201
Main: 760.391.4000
www.indio.org

Hours for film permits:
7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday

Known as the “City of Festivals” Indio shines with its many events. Millions of people visit each year to attend the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, Stagecoach Country Music Festival, International Tamale Festival, Southwest Arts Festival and Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival. Polo dominates part of the year with both day and night matches at the Empire Polo Club. The Coachella Valley History Museum, Coachella Valley Art Center, Indio Performing Arts Center and street murals of Old Town Indio highlight a thriving arts scene.

Contacts
Edith Sanchez, Community Program Assistant, esanchez@indio.org, 760.391.4175
Jim Curtis, Community Services Supervisor, jcurtis@indio.org, 760.391.4174

Permits
Submit at least 10 business days prior to production; however, permits can be expedited if necessary.
Processing Time: 1-5 business days
Fee: Still photography $50 application fee plus location fee of $10/day or $50/week; Film/video production $100 application fee plus location fee of $10/day or $125/week.

Insurance
Minimum $2 million general liability
$10 million aircraft liability, if applicable

Police/Sheriff/Fire/Roads
Assessed on a case-by-case basis depending on project requirements.

Special provisions: No permit is required on private property as long as shoot does not impact the public (e.g. fully obstructing streets or parking).

78495 Calle Tampico
La Quinta, CA 92253
760.777.7000
www.laquintaca.gov

Hours:
7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday

Known for its natural beauty and surrounding San Rosa Mountains backdrop, La Quinta exudes a laid back Old California vibe. In addition to the legendary La Quinta Resort & Club, a landmark since 1926, Old Town La Quinta boast sidewalk cafes, a weekly organic farmers market and special events. Neighborhood settings are diverse, from the historic La Quinta Cove with its nature trails to more contemporary homes in the gated and non-gated communities of North La Quinta.

Contact
Marcie Graham, Marketing Manager/Public Information Officer, 760.777.7032, mgraham@laquintaca.gov
Lisa Chastain, Public Safety Management Analyst, lchastain@laquintaca.gov 760.777.7273 or Code Compliance help desk CodeComplianceMail@laquintaca.gov 760-777-7050

Permits
Applications: Submit 30 days  prior to production.
Processing Time: As soon as possible but no longer than 30 days
Fees: Still photography $50 application fee plus $10/daily or $50/weekly location fee; Film/TV/Video: $100 application fee plus $25/daily or $125/weekly location fee.

The City charges a flat fee of $100.00 for one to three person and $400.00 for four or more persons (Film/Photography Permit).  This fee does not include business license or inspection fees that may be required from Building/Public Works/Police/Fire etc. 

Insurance
Minimum $1 million general liability

Police/Fire
Assessed on case-by-case basis depending on project requirements. Call the La Quinta Police Department at (760) 863-8990 and the Riverside County Fire Department Office of the Fire Marshal at (760) 863-8886 for details and fee.

Road Encroachment Permit
Required for productions filming in public right-of-way.

Aerial
Commercial drone camera use prohibited in City parks and City facilities.

73510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, California 92260
760-776-6477
https://www.palmdesert.gov/

Hours:
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday

Welcome to Palm Desert, a film-friendly city nestled in the heart of the Coachella Valley. The city has a mix of scenic views such as El Paseo showing high-end stores, art galleries, and eateries. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens shows casting animals and desert nature landscapes. The Desert Willow’s luscious green golf course and Marriot’s Desert Springs & Resort's beautiful landscape are the many photoshoot locations. 

Staff Liaison Contact:
Lorena Ritchey, Management Analyst
filmpermit@palmdesert.gov
Direct Line: 760-776-6477

Drone, Film & Photoshoot Permit:

Film permits are required for any commercial film activity that occurs within the City of Palm Desert under Palm Desert Municipal Code 5.94.030. Film activity includes drone use, filming, still photography, or video production. Any person desiring to use any property for the purpose of staging, shooting, making, capturing, taking, or recording images for any commercial or business purpose shall obtain a film permit. 

It is highly recommended you call our offices at 760-346-0611, ext. 477 before submitting a filming application to discuss your production needs so that we can best assist you. Film Permit applications should be submitted at least five (5) business days in advance, per PDMC 5.94.050(A). The City's staff will discuss the particulars of your production, and let you know what if any special conditions will apply, whether a police officer is required, and any other information needed to secure the permit.

Fees:

Drone, Film & Video

• Application Fee: $100.00 plus daily location fee of $25.00 per day or $125.00 for 7 days

Still photography

• Application Fee: $50.00 plus a daily location fee of $10.00 per day or $50.00 for 7 days.

Insurance
Minimum $1 million general liability and $2 million general aggregate.

Fire Department

Assessed on a case-by-case basis. For specific information call the Fire Department (760) 836-8886.

Police Department
Assessed on a case-by-case. If traffic control is required, contact the Sheriff’s Station at (760) 836-1600.

Road Encroachment Permit
An encroachment permit is required if any drone, filming, photography, and video takes place on public property (i.e., sidewalks, streets, etc.) at least ten (10) business days before the scheduled filming event. The City’s Permit Center issues the Encroachment Permit for a fee of $251.00. They can be reached at 760-776-6435 or permitcenter@palmdesert.gov. 

3200 E Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Main: 760.323.8299
www.palmsprings-ca.gov

Hours:
8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Palm Springs has skyrocketed into global stardom for its ultra-chic resorts and hotels, midcentury modern architecture, and superb restaurants. Top annual events include the Palm Springs International Film Festival in January, Modernism Week in February, and ongoing outstanding exhibitions at the Palm Springs Art Museumand Architectural and Design Center. Premier attractions include the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Indian Canyons and Moorten Botanical Garden.

Contact
Kimber Foster, Director of Palm Springs Tourism, kimber@visitgreaterps.com
Janice Lopez, Film Permit Officer, JaniceL@palmsprings-ca.gov, 760.323.8272

Visit Film in Palm Springs website at www.psfilmfriendly.com for complete guidelines and permits

69825 Highway 111
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Main: 760.324.4511
www.ranchomirageca.gov

Hours:
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday

Known as the “Playground of Presidents,” Rancho Mirage is home to Sunnylands, a historic midcentury modern residence, which has hosted a long list of notable guests including Queen Elizabeth II and Frank Sinatra, and numerous summits between the U.S. and international leaders. Attractions and activities also include gaming at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa, Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert, and a newly expanded community park with a state-of-the-art amphitheater.

Contact
Gabe Codding, gabec@ranchomirageca.gov
Planning Department, planning@ranchomirageca.gov

Permits
Applications: Submit at least 30 business calendar days prior to production.
Processing time: 1-35 business days
Fees: Still and motion - $571 flat application fee
Filming in residential areas is allowed on a case-by-case basis.

Insurance
Minimum $1 million general liability

Police/Fire
Assessed on a case-by-case basis. Contact the Planning Division prior to contacting the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department at (760) 836-1600 and the Fire Marshal’s office at (760) 346-1870 for details and fees.

Road Encroachment Permit
Required for public right-of-way; private communities require HOA approval.

Permits are required for filming in Riverside County unincorporated areas, county facilities or properties. Visit  www.filmriversidecounty.com for assistance.

Contact State Park unit a minimum of one week prior to production.
After the Park has completed form DPR245A, contact the California Film Commission to complete the permitting process.

Insurance

Minimum of $1 million general liability
Film-related aircraft activity: $10 million aircraft liability
State Park monitors required based on production company size

For complete details, see the Guidelines for Filming in California State Parks or contact the California Film Commission

MT. SAN JACINTO STATE PARK WILDERNESS

25905 Highway 243
Idyllwild, CA 92549

Contact: Brady Her, California State Park Peace Officer Supervisor
brady.her@parks.ca.gov, 760-327-0222

SALTON SEA STATE RECREATION AREA

100-225 State Park Road
Mecca, CA 92254
Park Main: 760.393.3059
Visitor Center: 760.393.3810
www.parks.ca.gov

Visitor Center Hours:
Daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. October-May
Friday-Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. June-September

Contact:,  Steve Quartieri, District Superintendent Salton Sea SRA, Picacho SRA, Ocotillo Wlls SRA and , Steve.Quartieri@parks.ca.gov 760.7674953

Permit Fee: $100
Other fees determined on a case-by-case basis.

ANZA-BORREGO DESERT STATE PARK

200 Palm Canyon Drive
Borrego Springs, CA 92004
Park Office: 760.767.5311
Visitor Center: 760.7674205

Contact:
Cheryll Schulz, Staff Service Analyst, Colorado Desert District

Cheryll.schulz@parks.ca.gov, (760) 767-4354

Permit Fee: Dependent on production; special event application $100
Other Fees determined on case-by-case basis.

LAKE PERRIS STATE RECREATION AREA

17801 Lake Perris Drive
Perris, CA 92571
Phone: 951.940.5600

Contacts

Kathy Bacha, Special Event Coordinator, kathy.bacha@parks.ca.gov, 951.940.5610

Fees: Special event permit administrative fee $25
Other fees determined on case-by-case basis.

BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT (BLM)

The BLM’s mission is to sustain the health, diversity and productivity of public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. The agency maintains jurisdiction over United States public lands, including National Conservation Areas, Wilderness Areas and Conservation Lands of the California Desert.

AGUA CALIENTE BAND OF CAHUILLA INDIANS

For information on filming in the Indian Canyons and other tribal-owned properties, contact:

Kate Anderson, Director of Public Relations, kanderson@aguacaliente-nsn.gov, 760.699.6925

The Forest Service, established in 1905 within the U.S. Department of Agriculture, manages about 192 million acres of public lands in national forests and grasslands. The Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument is jointly managed by the BLM and U.S. Forest Service, and incorporates about 280,000 acres, including public lands within the BLM’s California Desert conservation Area and the San Jacinto Ranger District of the San Bernardino National Forest.

SAN JACINTO RANGER DISTRICT OFFICE

Idyllwild,
(909) 382-2921

Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument
Palm Desert
(760) 862-9984

Click here for details on filming on Forest Service public lands for details on filming on Forest Service public lands.

BLM PALM SPRINGS SOUTH COAST FIELD OFFICE

1201 Bird Center Drive
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Office: 760.833.7100

Contact:
Brandon Anderson, Realty Specialist, banderson@blm.gov, 760.833.7117

Popular filming sites include Painted Canyon and Box Canyon Road, wind parks and the Palen Sand Dunes near Desert Center, CA. The BLM South Coast field Office. Click here for information on commercial filming guidelines, permits and fees. for information on commercial filming guidelines, permits and fees.

DESERT PRESERVES / THE WILDLANDS CONSERVANCY

Headquartered in the mountain community of Oak Glen, The Wildlands Conservancy owns and manages the largest nonprofit nature preserve system in the state, comprising 21 preserves encompassing 163,000 acres of diverse mountain, valley, desert, river, and oceanfront landscapes. Preserves near Greater Palm Springs include Whitewater, Mission Creek, and Pioneertown Mountains, all of which are open to the public free of charge for passive recreation and outdoor education. Outdoor enthusiasts can access the Sand to Snow National Monument via the Whitewater Preserve. There are restrictions for filming and photography in the preserves.

Contact: Sara Seburn, Marketing and Communications Director, sara.s@twc-ca.org, 909.797.8507, wildlandsconservancy.org
 

IMPERIAL COUNTY FILM COMMISSION

1095 S 4th Street
El Centro, CA 92243
Main: 760.337.4155
www.filmimperialcounty.com

The Imperial County Film Commission is responsible for permitting film, television, web and print production projects on properties throughout the County of Imperial. The Film Commission provides coordination and guidance for production on all public and private properties within the County of Imperial.

Click here for more information and to download permits.