Proposed Law Would Ban Unaccompanied Adults from City Playgrounds in L.A.

There is plenty of debate surrounding a proposed law that would prohibit adults from entering city-owned playgrounds unless in the company of children.

1 minute read

January 12, 2017, 2:00 PM PST

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Venice Beach

Michael Urmann / Shutterstock

Dakota Smith reports on the debate at Los Angeles City Hall surrounding a proposed law that would "bar adults unaccompanied by children from entering playgrounds in parks." The ordinance would apply to the 380 city-owned playgrounds spread around the city.

Proponents of the ordinance, proposed by Councilmember Mitch O'Farrell, say the law would protect children. Opponents say it's a case of government overreach, according to Smith's explanation of the debate. Proponents also point to the existence of similar laws in other cities, while opponents say the law has more to do with pushing homeless out of city parks than providing safe places for children to play.

Some precedent for limiting behaviors in city parks is already on the books in Los Angeles, including laws banning e-cigarettes and camping.

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