Filming With Drones in Los Angeles: FilmLA Basics
The documents FilmLA and California film offices ask for, and how to choose an LA aerial crew with permit experience.
What FilmLA asks for
Drone shoots on permitted LA locations typically require a drone questionnaire, the pilot's Part 107 certificate, aircraft registration, a plan of activity with maps, airspace authorisation where needed (LA has extensive controlled airspace) and an aviation insurance certificate of at least US$2M naming FilmLA and the jurisdiction. The California Film Commission also uses a US$2M level.
Allow lead time
Permits, airspace authorisations and location agreements take time. Bring your aerial provider in early so the flight plan is part of the permit application rather than an afterthought.
Choosing a crew
Ask for at least one recent permitted shoot (a permit number or production credit), a showreel in your genre, the aircraft and camera package, crew size and the insurance certificate. Verify details with the film office if in doubt.
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