LOS ANGELES : Council May Ease Horse-Keeping Law

Los Angeles City Councilman Hal Bernson introduced a motion Friday that would make it easier for small landowners to keep horses. Existing city law runs counter to the “city’s policy of encouraging and preserving the horse-keeping lifestyle” by requiring corrals to be located at least 35 feet away from a habitable room, Bernson said. That makes “horse-keeping possible only on very large lots,” he said. “This needs to be changed immediately.” The original intent of the setback requirement was to maintain a 35-foot distance between barns and stables and human habitation, according to the north San Fernando Valley councilman. Bernson’s district includes several neighborhoods where horses are allowed. His motion was referred to the council’s Planning and Land Use Management Committee, which he chairs.