Film L.A. to begin offering film permits online

On September 29, 2008, S.A.G.-affiliated Los Angeles-based nonprofit Film L.A., will introduce a state-of-the-art Online Permit System (OPS), which will revolutionize how permits to film on-location are applied for, coordinated and delivered.

Permit seekers will be able to apply online for film permits, as well as:

• create and save templates for future applications;
• receive instant confirmation that permit applications were received;
• track permit progress and status of agency approvals in real-time; and,
• download paid-for and finalized permits at their convenience.

The customer-focused component of OPS was designed with input from film industry pros in an effort to help make their jobs easier. In addition to the option to use OPS, FilmL.A. customers can continue to submit applications in person, by email and by fax as before.

OPS is the product of a three-year investment of time, capital and ingenuity that pushes the limits of the e-commerce model. When consumers purchase books or DVDs online, the products that ship can be identical. By contrast, taking into account the various combinations available on a single film permit, including the size of cast and crew, filming activities and equipment used, lane or road closures, special filming conditions and community concerns, no two film permits are alike.

Find out more about this new service at www.filmlainc.com.