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Planning and Building Department, Economic Development Division, recommending the Board Approve the Final Passage (Second Reading) of Ordinance 5236, adding Chapter 58 to Title 5 of the El Dorado County Ordinance Code entitled “Filming Permits,” to establish uniform procedures and requirements for commercial filming in El Dorado County. (Refer 8/12/2025, Item 38)
FUNDING: General Fund / Filming Permit Fees (to be established by Resolution and approved by the Board at a later date).
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DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
On August 12, 2025, the Board heard Ordinance 5236 and Continued the matter to August 19, 2025 for Final Passage (Second Reading).
Filming Permits Ordinance
The proposed ordinance adds Chapter 58 to Title 5 of the County Code and provides a modernized structure for issuing and enforcing permits for motion picture, television, digital media, and still photography projects. The Ordinance:
• Establishes permit requirements and exemptions;
• Authorizes the creation of an associated fee schedule via separate Board Resolution;
• Outlines application and insurance requirements;
• Allows for cost recovery and security deposits;
• Provides enforcement mechanisms and authorizes permit revocation if necessary;
• Repeals outdated Resolution No. 86-90.
The Ordinance has been modeled after the California Film Commission’s best practices and is designed to reduce administrative burdens while ensuring safety, compliance, and cost recovery. The Ordinance was submitted to the California Film Commission on July 9, 2025. A representative from the California Film Commission responded to the County's Ordinance on July 14, 2025 with a few minor suggested edits. Those edits have been incorporated into the Ordinance.
Adoption of this Ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under Section 15061(b)(3) as there is no possibility of a significant effect on the environment.
MOU - Film Officer Services
To support the implementation of the Ordinance and promote El Dorado County as a film-friendly destination, the County proposes to enter into an MOU with the El Dorado County Chamber (Chamber). Under the MOU:
• The Chamber will administer the Film Officer role and serve as the fiscal and administrative agent;
• The County will pay the Chamber in quarterly installments of $37,687.50, for a total of $150,750;
• Responsibilities are shared between the County, Chamber, and Film Officer for permit review coordination, fee schedule development, marketing, and administrative oversight;
• The Film Officer will serve as the primary liaison for all filming activity and will coordinate with County departments and external agencies to streamline processes and promote local economic benefits;
• Both parties will generate quarterly and annual reports to ensure transparency and accountability.
This partnership is designed to improve responsiveness to production inquiries, increase filming-related economic activity, and ensure consistent compliance with local regulations.
Fee Resolution
The Department is currently preparing a Resolution for future Board consideration that will establish filming permit fees as authorized by the Ordinance. This Resolution will provide a mechanism for cost recovery of Film Officer Services and County services rendered during permit processing. Staff is working with other departments that may have facilities used for filming purposes in establishing fees and the permit review process, such as the Department of Transportation and Parks, to ensure coordination. The goal is a quick and seamless process, so as not to impede on the quick turnaround necessary for most film permits.
ALTERNATIVES
The Board could choose not to adopt the Ordinance or approve the MOU. However, this would limit the County’s ability to regulate commercial filming and reduce the potential economic and promotional benefits to the region. Without a formal structure or dedicated liaison, permitting may remain inconsistent, and opportunities for growth may be lost.
PRIOR BOARD ACTION
On June 24, 2025 (Legistar file 25-1084), the Board directed the Department to return to the Board with a Film Permit Ordinance, MOU, and Fee Schedule for approval.
OTHER DEPARTMENT / AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
County Counsel, Chief Administrative Office - Community Development Finance and Administration
CAO RECOMMENDATION / COMMENTS
Approve as recommended.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The MOU establishes a cost of $150,750 to be paid from the General Fund in quarterly installments. The Ordinance will allow for cost recovery through filming permits once the Resolution is established.
CLERK OF THE BOARD FOLLOW UP ACTIONS
1. Continue this matter to the Board of Supervisors regular meeting of August 19, 2025 for Final Passage (Second Reading).
2. Publish the Ordinance Summary in the local newspaper no less than five (5) days prior to Final Passage.
3. Publish the Ordinance within fifteen (15) days after its passage in a newspaper of general circulation following Final Passage.
4. Obtain the Chair’s signature on the MOU.
STRATEGIC PLAN COMPONENT
N/A
CONTACT
Karen L. Garner, Director
Planning and Building Department