Film commission reports rising interest, new online permit tools and multiple shoots planned

Inyo County's film commissioner told the Board of Supervisors on Aug. 5 that interest from film and commercial production is growing, aided by a revamped film commission website and new permitting tools. Jesse, the county's film commissioner, said the county is attracting more location inquiries and scouts for projects projected for the fall, and that updated online resources are helping productions find local vendors and locations.

"Inyo County has become not just a beautiful location, but a respected production partner," Jesse said, summarizing feedback from location managers and producers. He described a list of recent and prospective projects: a documentary filming Owens Dry Lake as a visual warning about the shrinking Great Salt Lake, a shoe commercial focusing on running in extreme environments, a short student film shot in Bishop, and scouting interest from larger commercial productions such as Toyota for the fall.

Jesse credited improvements to the film commission website, developed by Julie Faber, which now includes locations, caterer listings, permitting information and roadside facilities to make scouting and permitting easier. He said the county is coordinating with the California Film Commission and Bishop Chamber of Commerce to update location listings and increase exposure for towns beyond the Alabama Hills.

The commissioner also described work with local businesses on small documentary projects and outreach to early-career filmmakers, and said industry contacts praised the county's professionalism and responsiveness. No formal board action was required for the presentation.