DOWNEY – The Downey City Council is set to discuss Tuesday the establishment of 500-foot buffer zones around bars, nightclubs, and live entertainment venues in proximity to sensitive areas such as schools, childcare facilities, hospitals, and senior centers.

The proposal aims to mitigate potential disruptions while balancing the city’s need for economic activity.

The discussion stems from a year-long evaluation of regulatory measures for alcohol-related businesses. During a meeting in April 2024, council members requested detailed maps outlining the location of existing establishments and proposed buffer zones.

Notably, the Downtown Downey Specific Plan (DDSP) area is excluded from the proposed regulations to maintain its dynamic character as a mixed-use hub. City officials highlighted the need to support diverse economic activities while safeguarding community quality of life.

The council will consider three options:

Strict Buffer Zones: Prohibiting new bars, nightclubs, or live entertainment venues within the proposed 500-foot radius of sensitive uses.

Buffer Zones with Standards: Allowing establishments within buffer zones but subjecting them to stricter operational criteria, such as limited hours or noise controls.

No Change: Maintaining the current Conditional Use Permit (CUP) process, which includes specific conditions for operations near sensitive areas.

Proponents of the buffer zones argue that they would reduce noise disturbances and improve public safety. However, opponents caution that overly strict regulations could discourage investment in the local economy.

If implemented, the buffer zones could reclassify two existing establishments as legal non-conforming uses, allowing them to continue operations under specific conditions. The council’s decision will also guide future applications for alcohol-related businesses, which currently require a CUP and a comprehensive security plan approved by the city and the state’s Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC).

Council members will weigh the proposed measures’ impact on safety, business operations, and community engagement. The city’s regulatory framework seeks to balance growth with preserving Downey’s family-friendly reputation.