WASHINGTON — The Federal Communications Commission said yesterday it will conduct a public hearing on media ownership issues in Los Angeles on Oct. 3.

The agency is considering whether to eliminate a ban on cross-ownership of broadcast stations and newspapers, whether to increase the number of radio and television stations a company may own in a single market and other rules.

The announcement came four days before FCC Chairman Kevin Martin was scheduled to testify at his confirmation hearing Tuesday before the Senate Commerce Committee. Martin has been nominated by President Bush for another term, but the appointment requires Senate approval. His current term expired June 30.

In 2003, the FCC loosened the limits on media ownership. An appeals court in Philadelphia sent them back to the agency for reconsideration. The public has until Sept. 22 to file comments with the FCC.