‘Baywatch’ Expands Filming at Venice Beach
The production team for the popular series “Baywatch” is set to enhance its operations at Venice Beach. Ongoing filming has prompted discussions between the producers and local officials regarding adjustments to the film permit.
Expansion of Baywatch Filming at Venice Beach
On Friday, city and county representatives gathered to discuss necessary modifications to the show’s filming permit. L.A. City Councilwoman Traci Park expressed optimism about the meeting’s outcomes, stating that all parties left feeling positive about the developments. “We want to encourage this and not discourage it,” she remarked.
Government Support and Tax Credits
The “Baywatch” reboot consists of 12 episodes and recently received a substantial tax credit of $21 million from the California Film Commission. This effort is part of a broader initiative to revive production activities in Los Angeles. Additionally, the California Coastal Commission approved the film permit on February 6.
Parking and Permit Adjustments
- The initial permit allowed for:
- 27 parking spaces adjacent to Venice Beach
- 177 spaces at a nearby city lot
- The production now requires double the original parking allocations.
- They seek permission for overnight parking, as current regulations permit parking only from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. on shooting days.
The filming is set to continue until July 16, with activities planned at multiple beaches across the L.A. region. Although nighttime filming was not initially approved, Park indicated that officials are willing to authorize extended filming hours to accommodate night scenes.
Commitment to Success
L.A. County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath emphasized strong communication between the production team and local officials, with a shared commitment to successful filming this season and future seasons in Los Angeles. Steve Kang, the film liaison for Mayor Karen Bass, noted additional support, including a 20% discount on city parking lot rentals.
Environmental Considerations
The permit enables the production to close off a 300-square-foot section of the beach, ensuring measures are in place to maintain public access, protect wildlife, and prevent sand erosion. This initiative highlights the importance of balancing production needs with environmental stewardship.
Despite earlier rumors suggesting that government restrictions might force the production away from Venice Beach, local officials assured that the opposite is true. “I’m pleased that ‘Baywatch’ will continue to film right here on Venice Beach,” tweeted Mayor Bass, underscoring the city’s commitment to promoting filming opportunities in the entertainment capital.
