Ordinance Passed Against Unruly Fans

Fans who turn spectator sporting events in Los Angeles into participatory outings may find themselves facing a fine or jail term.

An ordinance passed by the City Council Wednesday makes it illegal for fans to enter such areas as fields, courts, arenas, stages or other grounds where games are being played.

The ordinance, which passed unanimously, also prohibits spectators from throwing objects or commiting any act that would delay or interfere with the participants of a sporting event.

Councilman Hal Bernson, sponsor of the ordinance, said Thursday that it will prevent altercations that have taken place recently at games.

“Other fans who go to these games feel intimidated a lot of the time,” he said. “Now other fans can go to a game and enjoy it.

The ordinance, which was signed by Mayor Bradley Wednesday and went into effect immediately, makes such an act a misdemeanor, Bernson said.

Specifically, the ordinance forbids anyone to “intentionally throw, discharge, launch or spill any solid or liquid substance or object, or otherwise intentionally cause such a substance or object to be thrown, discharged, launched or to become airborne.”

Sam Fernandez, a spokesman for the Dodgers, said that security at the stadium usually prevents fans from disrupting games, although a spectator occasionally might toss something onto the field.