The Los Angeles City Council has approved an ordinance that exempts temporary and permanent venues, training facilities, security perimeters, broadcast and media centers, transit infrastructure, live sites, fan zones, and other related structures for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games from City Planning approvals, zoning regulations, and conditions. This exemption includes Conditional Use Permits, Site Plan Review requirements, height restrictions, setback requirements, and specific plan limitations, aiming to streamline project approvals and avoid delays. The Department of City Planning (DCP), along with the City Attorney and other agencies, has been directed to draft the ordinance and report on its budgetary and fiscal impacts. Additionally, the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) will establish a dedicated unit to expedite approvals for Olympic-related projects, ensuring their timely completion.
This decision accelerates infrastructure development for the 2028 Olympic Games, reducing regulatory hurdles to ensure that essential venues and facilities are constructed on time. However, it has sparked controversy due to concerns about public oversight, environmental impacts, and the potential for long-term consequences beyond the Olympic Games.