The City Council has voted unanimously to loosen one of the most restrictive film permit laws in California.

The 5-0 vote last month no longer allows a single resident or business owner to veto a film or still photography permit by withholding written consent.

Previously, 100 percent approval was required by those within a 500-foot radius of a film location.

That ordinance, established in 1997, was a response to the destruction film crews once caused the city, according to Councilmember Dennis Gillette.

Now, for filming of three days or fewer, written consent of at least 90 percent of residents and business owners within 200 feet of the filming location is required.

For four or more days, written consent is required by at least 95 percent of those within 300 feet of the location.

For still photography that uses one full day, written consent is required from a home or business immediately adjacent to or directly across the street from the still photography location. For more than one day, 90 percent of residents and business owners within 200 feet must provide written consent.

The motion picture company must also provide contact information to those in the written consent area at least 24 hours before the filming begins.

The City Council’s approval is no longer required for the simulated discharge of a weapon.

No filming is allowed on New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

A permit isn’t required for photography of weddings and other events taking four hours or less, not requiring parking on a public street and using just one camera.

In 2007, 21 film permits were issued for under three days and three permits issued for three or more days. In 2008, 26 permits were issued for less than three days and two for more than three days. So far in 2009, eight permits have been issued for less than three days and four for more than three days.

All applications for permits must be reviewed by police and possibly other city departments, depending on the filming plans.

A fee of $145 per permit is charged. Weapons, explosives or sirens cannot be used without the consent of the police department.

Critics of the previous ordinance said it was too strict.

Others argued that the permit protected the quality of life in the city.