Los Angeles City Council Moves to Repeal Outdated Law Against Playing Catch

On Tuesday, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously voted 14-0 to initiate the repeal of Los Angeles Municipal Code Section 56.16, a law that imposes fines and potential jail time for playing catch or engaging in other sports on public and residential streets, as well as in many parks. The council directed the city attorney to draft an ordinance for this repeal, which is expected to return for a final vote.

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The law, which has been in place since approximately 1945, prohibits "any game of sport with a ball or football" and the throwing of various "missiles," including stones and arrows, across streets and sidewalks unless designated areas are set aside for such activities. Violators could face fines of up to $1,000 and six months in jail. Councilmember Bob Blumenfield, who introduced the motion for repeal in August 2022, described the regulation as "uncommonly silly," highlighting that it criminalizes simple activities such as parents playing catch with their children.

Newser

City officials have deemed the law outdated and inappropriate for contemporary urban life. Blumenfield's motion pointed out that more serious offenses, such as firing a weapon, are already covered by other laws, making the specific prohibitions in Section 56.16 redundant. The council's decision reflects a broader recognition that such regulations do not align with modern community standards and recreational practices.

WJZ - CBS Baltimore

Critics of the law have pointed out its absurdity, noting that it effectively criminalizes benign activities that are commonplace in neighborhoods. The law's enforcement has been rare, with reports indicating only one or two instances of enforcement over several decades. This lack of enforcement raises questions about the necessity of maintaining such a law on the books.

Newser

In his motion, Blumenfield emphasized the need for laws that reflect the realities of life in Los Angeles, stating, "In the City of Los Angeles, it is a crime... for a parent to play catch with their child on the sidewalk." The council's unanimous support for the repeal indicates a collective agreement on the need for legislative updates that better serve the community.

NBC Los Angeles

The drafted ordinance for the repeal will be presented to the council for a final vote in the coming weeks. Until the repeal is finalized, the law technically remains in effect, although it is noted that enforcement is exceedingly rare.

Newser

• “uncommonly silly law.” — Bob Blumenfield, Councilmember

WJZ - CBS Baltimore

The Los Angeles City Council's move to repeal this law marks a significant step toward modernizing municipal regulations and promoting community engagement through recreational activities.

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