Council Panel Denies Topless Bar Request

A Los Angeles City Council panel rejected a proposal Tuesday that would allow a bikini bar in Tarzana to convert into a topless bar, finding no reason for an exception to a zoning rule banning adult businesses from within 500 feet of homes.

Dean Gettleson sought the exception, saying he could not find another property for the business that complies with zoning rules.

Dino’s Show Bar, 18454 Oxnard St., is not now affected but the ban would apply under the proposed change, said Roger Diamond, an attorney for the nightclub owner.

“The dancers are already dancing. All they want to do is remove their tops,” Diamond told the council’s Planning and Land Use Management Committee.

Councilwoman Cindy Miscikowski said a zoning administrator’s study found there were 16,000 acres of industrial land in the city that is farther than 500 feet from homes, and that two other adult businesses were able to open last year, in Van Nuys and Sun Valley.

Representatives of the Tarzana Property Owners Assn. and City Councilwoman Laura Chick also testified against granting an exception to the 500-foot rule.

“It is not an appropriate use within that radius,” said Debbie Dyner, an aide to Chick. “We don’t think a topless use at this point is necessary. We think they are just fine with their tops on.”