Sec. 26-253. - General provisions.

(a)

Permit exemptions. The provisions of this section shall not apply to:

(1)

The filming or video taping of motion pictures solely for private use.

(2)

The filming or taping of motion pictures or still photography for use in a criminal investigation or civil, judicial, or administrative proceedings.

(3)

Filming, televising, or taping by reporters or cameramen in the employ of newspaper, news service, or similar entity engaged in journalism.

(4)

A motion picture, television or commercial photography studio operating at an established or fixed place of business in the City with an approved conditional use permit.

(b)

No permit fee shall be required for projects which qualify under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, generally including student films. However, permits shall be required as in this division, and any necessary police, fire, or other City personnel shall be at the applicant's own expense.

(c)

Filming guidelines. The Planning Commission may adopt, by resolution, guidelines to be applied in granting permits and setting conditions under this section.

(d)

General filming conditions.

(1)

No gunfire, explosions, aircraft, sirens, public address systems, bull horns, or other noise-creating devices shall be used.

(2)

No film permits shall be issued for property upon which there are any outstanding uncorrected violations of chapters 7 (buildings and building regulations), 10 (fire prevention and protection) or 26 (zoning) of this Code, or of the California building or fire codes as adopted by the City.

(e)

Application requirements.

(1)

Payment of appropriate fees and deposits, as set by resolution of the City Council.

(2)

Completed application forms as prescribed by the Community Development Director or their designee.

(3)

Documentation of minimum liability insurance, and certificate of insurance identifying the City as additional insured for the purposes of filming, in the amount set by resolution of the City Council.

(4)

Prior written permission of the property owner on the appropriate City form, or equivalent written permission as acceptable to the Community Development Director or their designee.

(5)

A site plan showing crew and equipment areas, all parking locations, set locations and orientations (including lighting and camera locations), all drawn in sufficient detail for the City to evaluate the intensity of use and potential impacts.

(6)

A complete written description of all scenes to be shot under the permit.

(Ord. No. 2519, § 5(Exh. A), 2-20-24)