Opponents of a city ordinance banning lap dancing at strip clubs, bikini bars and adult bookstores are not taking the ban sitting down.
Activists said Monday they have collected more than 106,000 signatures opposing the “no-touch” rule that would require dancers to remain at least six feet from customers.

If 56,941 signatures on the petitions are verified, the City Council can either rescind the proposed ordinance or placing a referendum on it on a citywide ballot for voter consideration.

The City Council voted unanimously in September to ban lap dances and put in place restrictions that also would outlaw “VIP rooms” where nude dancers perform privately.

“We showed that voters in Los Angeles do not wish to have their public safety resources wasted on over-regulation of adult entertainment,” said Steven Afriat, campaign manager for adult entertainment businesses seeking to impose the referendum. “The voters know needless legislation when they see it.”

Supporters of the law have argued that adult entertainment places contribute to prostitution and drug use.