Film Permitting

San Bernardino County's Film Office
The San Bernardino County Economic Development Department aides in obtaining film and photo permits for the entertainment industry. Our permit coordinators can aide in providing answers, solutions, and alternative courses of action to help your production become a reality.
Permit Coordination
Our team can help coordinate your film or photo with timely, effective communication. We ensure that you are briefed throughout the entire process including any potential setbacks or uncertainties that may arise. In these times, please rest assured that we will provide alternative approaches to ensuring your production is permitted as intended. Locate Parcel Information
FAQ's
Do I need a permit when filming on private property?
Yes, a filming permit is required for all commercial filming/photography done in the unincorporated area of San Bernardino County, or when facilities are used that belong to, are managed by or are under the jurisdiction of the County of San Bernardino.
How do I apply?
The County of San Bernardino uses a "one-stop-shop" online application system for all County processes that require a permit. Please click here to access the film permitting.
What are the filming permit processing fees?
- Film permit (motion, still, and student): $258.00/permit.
- Minor rider – additions, corrections or alterations to permits: $69.00/permit.
- Major rider – additions, corrections or alterations to permits which involves collecting fees on behalf of other departments: $94.00/permit.
- Applicants are subject to additional fees based on the complexity of the production.
Where can I find information on incentives?
With the passage of The California Tax Credit Program 3.0, your production, if qualified, may be eligible for tax credits. To learn more about this opportunity, please visit the California Film Commission (CFC) page.
Is my location in San Bernardino County?
Please click here and enter the film site address. If the location you inputted for your search is within the black outlined shape, your location takes place within San Bernardino County. The provided free tool will also provide you with your indicated parcel number, which is important for when you fill out your application, as well as other information about the location that could be helpful to your permit coordination.
How do I know if I need a filming permit from the county?
Some incorporated cities issue their own film permits and do not require a film permit issued by San Bernardino County. To verify where you should permit your production, please enter your filming location address into the top right search bar on our Film Permitting Jurisdictions ArcGIS Map provided below.
Click here to view the Location Library for San Bernardino County
What documents do I need?
Minimum Required Documents for all Permits:
- Waiver of Subrogation Rights
- County Insurance Requirements
- Private Property Approval Form (for EACH location)
Additional Required Documents for Drone Usage:
- Request to Use Drone UAS
- County Drone Insurance
- Drone UAS Usage Guidelines and Requirements
Other Additional Requirements and Information (as applicable):
- County Credits Agreement
- County Regional Parks Stipulations
- County Animal Stipulations
- Auto Insurance Waiver
- Workers Comp Insurance Waiver
- Workers Comp FAQ
San Bernardino County Film Office
290 North D Street, Suite 600
San Bernardino, CA 92415-0047
Film office inquiries can be directed to [email protected]
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