Filming Fee of $20,000 per day at Grand Avenue Park Draws Protests

Image: Rendering by Greg Jamieson, courtesy of Los Angeles Grand Avenue Authority

The film industry is protesting a $20,000 fine that county officials plans to charge to shoot at the new Grand Avenue Park.

According to county officials, the fee was developed based on what other landmark parks nationwide charge the film industry to shoot on location. However, critics of the fee and film industry insiders say that isn’t exactly so, as most other local parks typically charge around $450 a day for filming.

Director of the Motion Picture Association of America, Sarah Walsh said, “A fee of $20,000 per day for a public location gives filmmakers another reason to choose locations outside of Los Angeles. The county can do more to encourage filming and reducing this fee would be a first step.”

According to the L.A. Times, her message seems to have made an impact, as the Board of Supervisors agreed on Tuesday to review all film fees charged at county facilities to make sure fees are reasonable.

County supervisor Don Knabe, who introduced the motion to review the fees said, “I do not believe charging excessive fees should be used to stop filming.”

Described as a vibrant outdoor community gathering place for all Angelenos, Grand Park was designed to add a new spirit and vitality to downtown. Featuring expansive green space for gatherings large and small, Grand Park is host to community events, cultural experiences, holiday celebrations and many other activities that engage and attract visitors from all communities throughout the County.