In an effort to bolster its creative economy, Sacramento has rolled out the red carpet for film and TV productions with hefty budgets. According to Sacramento City Express, the newly minted rebate initiative offers up to $250,000 in reimbursements for eligible projects filming in the city for the 2025–26 fiscal year.
To qualify, productions must have a City of Sacramento budget exceeding $1 million and must film for at least five days or 20 percent of their schedule within city limits. Applicants must also provide proof that 80 percent of their funding is secured. The program is designed not just to attract high-budget projects, but to prioritize support for the local economy. As Film Commissioner Jennifer West explained in an interview with Sacramento City Express, “only Sacramento-based labor is eligible for reimbursement.”
The refund program offers a full 100 percent reimbursement for essential City services, including police, fire, permits, and parking. In addition, productions may receive a 25 percent rebate on expenses such as hotel accommodations, food, equipment rentals, local hires, and wardrobe costs. However, the program does not apply to all types of productions—commercials, student films, and several other categories are not eligible.
Applicants must go through a review panel that includes City staff, economic development professionals, and industry representatives. To begin the process, prospective participants should email [email protected] with detailed information about their project to request a meeting. Full program guidelines are available on the Sacramento Film + Media website.
Beyond issuing film permits and supporting production logistics, the Film + Media office has distributed over $267,000 in grants to 36 local productions this year. This investment has led to more than 300 local hires and over 1,500 hotel nights booked, boosting the local economy by approximately $1.09 million.
