The Los Angeles City Council on Wednesday voted unanimously to phase out oil and gas drilling within city limits over 20 years. Mayor Karen Bass signed the ordinance Thursday, making L.A. the largest city in the nation to phase out existing oil wells.
Key Stakeholders Respond
Councilmember Traci Park emphasized the city’s commitment to 100% clean electricity by 2035, stating, “It’s long past due” to end oil drilling. The ordinance reclassifies existing oil and gas activities as “nonconforming use,” restricting operations to the next two decades while banning new drilling and expansions.
Energy companies, including Warren Resources, argue the policy constitutes an “illegal taking of property.” A December letter from Warren Resources claimed the ordinance violates “vested rights” and lacks proper environmental review, though no response was received from the company.
New law enables L.A. to revive drilling ban
The measure revives a 2022 ban struck down in 2024 after a court ruled state law superseded local authority. Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Assembly Bill 3233 later enabled local regulation, allowing L.A. to retry the policy. Environmental advocates highlighted health risks, with residents in Wilmington reporting asthma, cancer, and foul odors linked to nearby oil fields.
Opponents, including the California Independent Petroleum Association, warned the ban could increase reliance on foreign oil, citing higher gas prices and reduced tax revenue. “This will lead to higher greenhouse gas emissions,” said CEO Rock Zierman.
Where It Stands Now
The ordinance applies to 600 active and 1,200 idle wells, primarily in low-income communities. About two-thirds of active wells are operated by three companies, including Warren Resources, which previously sued to block the 2022 ban. The city’s Climate Action Plan, released in April, calls for cleaning drill sites to repurpose land for housing and parks.
Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky acknowledged potential legal challenges but stated the city attorney confirmed the ordinance’s legality. “The record is more clear than ever about why this approach is valid,” she said.
Did You Know? The ordinance targets 600 active and 1,200 idle oil wells, with existing operations restricted to a 20-year phaseout period.
What does the new oil drilling ordinance prohibit?
What does the new ordinance prohibit?
The ordinance halts new oil and gas drilling and phases out existing operations over 20 years. It bans redrilling, deepening, or expanding active wells, though routine maintenance is allowed.
Why was the previous ban blocked?
A 2022 ban was struck down in 2024 after a court ruled state law superseded local authority. Energy companies argued the city lacked jurisdiction over petroleum production.
What health risks are associated with oil wells?
Studies link oil wells to carcinogen emissions and health issues like respiratory problems, headaches, and throat irritation. Residents in Wilmington reported severe conditions, including asthma and cancer, tied to nearby drilling.
How might this decision impact other cities facing similar debates?
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