Plans to 'tame' paparazzi in LA

Stars like Britney Spears and Lindsay Lohan are regular targets

The paparazzi are facing a possible crackdown in parts of Los Angeles.

Local officials from popular celebrity areas like Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and Malibu are meeting later to discuss ways of controlling photographers.

They are concerned that the paparazzi have grown more aggressive and confrontational in recent years.

"This is a response to their lack of responsible behaviour," said Los Angeles City Councilman Dennis Zine, who has organised the meeting.

Mr Zine proposed a "personal safety zone" around celebrities earlier this year that police officials said would be virtually unenforceable.

He has also suggested legitimising the paparazzi - who are, by definition, freelancers - by giving them credentials and clear rules.

Trespassing

Malibu residents often complain about the behaviour of photographers, citing high-speed car chases and photographers lurking outside schools, according to acting Mayor Pamela Conley Ulich.

Earlier this week, actress Halle Berry accused a photographer of trespassing on her property to get shots of her with her four-month-old daughter.

In June, a group of surfers in Malibu fought with photographers who were trying to take shots of Matthew McConaughey on the waves.

Also this month, police arrested two photographers who were lingering near Britney Spears' home.

"As it stands today, the sheriff's department is confident and comfortable that the laws that exist provide enough to ensure the safety and security of residents," said a spokesman for Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca.