On a crowded Memorial Day at Venice Beach Boardwalk, Los Angeles Police Officers were out in force, issuing citations for smoking in public and open container violations. In addition to their presence at Venice Beach, the LAPD Mounted Unit was also deployed at Santa Monica Beach to ensure public safety and order.
Smoking, whether tobacco or marijuana, is strictly prohibited on the boardwalk and the beach, in accordance with Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44.b,24 and California Health and Safety section 11362.3. As per the Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44.b,24, the use of tobacco products and smokeless tobacco is banned, and violations of this regulation are considered infractions. The code specifically states that no person shall light, ignite, or otherwise set fire to, or smoke, carry, throw, or discard any lighted tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, or smoking tobacco within the area.
Moreover, California Health and Safety section 11362.3 emphasizes that cannabis or cannabis products may not be smoked or ingested in any public place unless authorized by the local jurisdiction. Violation of this section is also deemed an infraction. It is further clarified that smoking cannabis is prohibited in locations where smoking tobacco is disallowed, which includes the Venice Beach Boardwalk and its adjacent beach area.
The LAPD has been actively enforcing these regulations to ensure the health and safety of residents and visitors to the city. The ban on smoking at popular outdoor spots like Venice Beach aims to protect the public from secondhand smoke exposure and maintain clean and enjoyable recreational spaces.
Authorities urge everyone to comply with these laws and respect the designated non-smoking areas across the city. Failure to adhere to these regulations may result in citations and fines. It is essential for the public to be aware of these rules and to act responsibly to preserve the well-being of all individuals in Los Angeles.
The LAPD remains vigilant in upholding these smoking regulations and will continue to monitor and enforce the ban to uphold public health standards and promote a cleaner, smoke-free environment for all. The citations were issued in accordance with California Business and Professions Code 25620, which classifies having an open alcohol container in a public area as an infraction.
The officers actively patrolled the busy boardwalk, addressing various infractions and maintaining a visible presence to deter potential violations. The Mounted Unit, known for its effectiveness in crowd control, played a key role in navigating through the dense crowds, offering both security and a sense of reassurance to beachgoers.
Their elevated vantage point allowed the mounted officers to oversee large areas efficiently, responding swiftly to any incidents that arose. The deployment of the mounted unit at Santa Monica Beach was particularly effective in managing the high volume of visitors, contributing to a safer and more orderly environment.
The increased police activity was part of a broader effort to maintain public safety during the busy holiday weekend. The LAPD's actions underscored their commitment to upholding regulations and ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience for all beach visitors.
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Fabian Lewkowicz is a Santa Monica-based photojournalist and press photographer, and the creator of the photo blog, Santa Monica Close Up. With years of experience as a staff photographer for several media outlets including the Santa Monica Daily Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica Observer, and the Santa Monica Corsair, Fabian has captured some of the most iconic moments of Santa Monica.
Fabian's photographs have been displayed in a variety of settings, including museums, art galleries, hospitals, department stores, banks, fire stations, police stations, commercial buildings, amusement parks, offices, and homes. His photography captures the essence of Santa Monica, from its beautiful landscapes and stunning sunsets to its unique culture and diverse community.
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