Using a residential property as a shoot location? CA laws?
 

Hello,

I was searching the web trying to find any info on California laws concerning the use of my home, a residential property, as a shoot location. At most I am only semi-pro and usually have no more than one shoot per month. Most of what I shoot is non-nude/implied, but about 10% is Playboy style topless, and 10% Playboy style nude/artistic nude, and everything I shoot is posted on a public website (I have full releases from the models). All shoots are done indoors, blinds closed, so nothing is visible from outside.

I doubt there would be any problems with the non-nude/implied stuff, but could any legal issues arise concerning the topless/nude work? I'm mainly concerned about an ex-roommate trying to start some kind of drama by making false accusations. i.e. could he claim I'm shooting "porn"?

I know the easiest way to find out would be to pay a lawyer and ask, but I wanted to see if I could get some feedback her before spending any cash.

So far I've searched the boards here, yahoo, google, and the CA law database leginfo.ca.gov/calaw.html without much luck.

Any feedback or referrals to lawyers in the So. Cal. area would be much appreciated.

Thanks!

LBB

You might be up against zoning issues. But I would think authorities would have to catch you in the act, or prove your pictures were authentic.

Best to consult a local lawyer.

I alway recommend attorney Charles Carreon who is licensed in OR and CA:

mediaesq.com

:)

If there's a problem outside of local city ordinance in CA, then I'd venture to say at least 50% of the companies here would be fucked and unable to produce content.

<-- not a lawyer, just my 2 cents.

get liability ins if yer gonna have peeps in yer home

Larry Walters @ www.FirstAmendment.com is a good man to ask.

good luck :)

I've shot in private locations in LA a bunch of times. Houses and even apartments. As long as its indoors and private I don't see the problem, unless you have really nosy neighbors. Technically I'm pretty sure you're supposed to have premits, insurance etc, but when you don't have a big budget you do what you gotta do. Do it when your roommate is out of town.

In LA, unless your neighbors complain you're fine. If they do complain, the authorities will show up and tell you to stop and/or likely instruct you on how to get a permit. For your own piece of mind and to save in attourneys fees, just call the city and ask them.

You can borrow my house in canyon Hills about an hour north of san diego

Thanks for all the helpful info, it definitely gave me some things to consider.

Thanks again!

LBB