The thirty-mile zone (TMZ), also known as the studio zone, is a specifically defined geographical area crucial to the American entertainment industry. It dictates certain rules, particularly concerning employee benefits and compensation for cast and crew.
Understanding the Thirty-Mile Zone
The thirty-mile zone serves as a benchmark for production companies to determine when additional benefits, such as per diem or travel time, become applicable for crew members. Working outside this zone typically triggers these extra provisions.
Key Characteristics of the TMZ:
- Geographical Definition: The TMZ is an area encompassing a 30-mile (approximately 48 km) radius.
- Central Point: Its center is traditionally "Hollywood," specifically the intersection of Beverly Boulevard and La Cienega Boulevard in Los Angeles, California.
- Purpose: It is primarily used by entertainment industry unions and guilds to define employee benefits for work performed both inside and outside of this established perimeter.
How It Impacts Production
The concept of the thirty-mile zone influences various aspects of film and television production:
- Compensation: When production extends beyond the 30-mile radius, crew members may be entitled to higher pay rates, overtime, travel expenses, and housing allowances, as stipulated by union contracts.
- Logistics: Location scouting and production planning often consider the TMZ to manage budgets and logistics effectively. Shooting within the zone can significantly reduce costs associated with travel and accommodations.
- Union Agreements: The TMZ is a fundamental part of collective bargaining agreements between studios and various guilds, including the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), the Directors Guild of America (DGA), and the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
Summary of Thirty-Mile Zone Details:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Alternate Name | Studio Zone |
| Radius | 30 miles (48 kilometers) |
| Center Point | "Hollywood" (Los Angeles, CA) |
| Primary Use | Determining employee benefits for entertainment industry workers |
| Impact | Affects production budgets, logistics, and union contractual obligations |
In essence, the thirty-mile zone acts as a boundary line that helps standardize compensation and working conditions within the highly mobile and often demanding world of Hollywood productions.
