Filming Policy & Site Location Fees

The following documents outline the guidelines and fees for photo and film production crews who wish to use the Aquarium of the Pacific as a location/or use animals and staff for shooting all or part of feature films, television commercials, television series, music videos, print advertisements, documentaries, etc.

The first step is to submit a proposal and script/storyboards. Once approved, please download, print, and send the signed and completed paperwork to us via scan/email to mpadilla@lbaop.org or fax to Marilyn Padilla (562) 590-3109. We will also need a certificate of insurance as detailed in the policy and a copy of your City permit.

Aquarium of the Pacific Location Checklist

To secure your date:

• Submit a film/photo shoot proposal
• Provide the fully-executed Aquarium Location Policy/Addendum A
• Submit a certificate of insurance at least one week prior. (Must include as detailed in Addendum A of the Aquarium’s Location Agreement:
  
  • $1 million in general liability, workers comp, and auto
  • Include the following wording in the description section “A waiver of subrogation is granted in favor of the additional insured”
  • The additional insured section must include the following wording “Aquarium of the Pacific and the City of Long Beach, and their Officers, Employees, and Volunteers”
  • Endorsement pages must be included
  • Insurance should be “Primary and Non-Contributory” coverage. If any of the above is missing or incorrect, the final complete and correct certificate of insurance must be provided to the Aquarium’s PR department at least 2 business days prior.
• Provide your billing information. (Company name, address, phone, fax, and contact name and contact phone)
• Provide a copy of your script. (For reality television an episode synopsis or outline / For photography a storyboard or mockup).
• Provide a copy of your COVID-19 safety protocols and safety/sanitation plan for your shoot at the Aquarium.

Prior to filming

• Schedule a Technical Scout (at least one week prior)
• Provide a copy of your City of Long Beach permit. Contact Long Beach Special Events and Filming. Contact info: Phone: (562) 570-5333; Fax: (562) 570-5335
• Full payment

Additional paperwork may be required depending on the nature of the shoot, i.e. copy of open water SCUBA dive certification and signed dive waiver for SCUBA/snorkeling, signed Animal Encounter Agreement for interacting with the sea lions, sea otters, sharks, or penguins, etc.