Chapter 8.74
PUBLIC CAMPING PROHIBITION
Sections:
8.74.010 Findings and legislative purpose.
8.74.020 Public camping—Prohibited—Definitions.
8.74.030 Public camping—Penalty.
8.74.040 Removal of personal property.
8.74.010 Findings and legislative purpose.
Camping and unlawful storage on public property disrupt pedestrian and vehicular traffic, businesses, and governmental functions. It poses a threat to the public health, welfare, and safety, and it adds to municipal responsibilities and expenses while detracting from other governmental priorities. Allowing camping to occur without consequences can disincentivize people from seeking assistance and resources that could help them obtain permanent housing. (Ord. 2029-0525 § 1, 2025)
8.74.020 Public camping—Prohibited—Definitions.
A. Camping on any public property is prohibited.
B. For purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:
1. “Camping” means reside or sleep in a tent, hut, lean-to, or other temporary shelter or structure.
2. “Public property” means all real property within the city limits in which the city has a property interest and which is reserved for any public purpose, including city-owned rights-of-way, parks, public facilities, easements, critical areas and buffers. (Ord. 2029-0525 § 1, 2025; Ord. 1977-0921 § 1, 2021. Formerly 8.74.010)
8.74.030 Public camping—Penalty.
The penalty for camping in violation of Section 8.74.010 shall be a misdemeanor, punishable by up to ninety days in jail and a one thousand dollar fine; provided, however, that a misdemeanor shall not be charged if law enforcement has offered resources to a person camping on public property and that person accepts the offer or agrees to relocate off of public property. Charges may be subject to criminal deferral. To the degree permitted by law, fines and/or penalties may be waived in the court’s reasonable judgment upon a showing of need. (Ord. 2029-0525 § 1, 2025; Ord. 1977-0921 § 1, 2021. Formerly 8.74.020)
8.74.040 Removal of personal property.
Personal property associated with camping on public property, when such camping is in violation of this chapter, is subject to removal by the city. Materials that are toxic, dangerous, or obviously refuse may be disposed of immediately. Notice shall be provided to the owner that property is being stored and may be reclaimed within sixty days. (Ord. 2029-0525 § 1, 2025; Ord. 1977-0921 § 1, 2021)
8.74.050 Implementation.
The city manager or designee shall develop policies governing the enforcement of this chapter, which shall be consistent with constitutional and legal parameters. Policies shall include procedures for the removal of personal property associated with camping. This chapter shall not be enforced until policies have been developed and finalized. (Ord. 2029-0525 § 1, 2025)