Spokane Municipal Code

Title 12 Public Ways and Property

Chapter 12.02 Obstruction, Encroachment of Public Ways

Article VI. Protection of Public Lands and Properties

Section 12.02.1007 Obstructing Access to or Use of Public Property

 

1. A person shall not knowingly obstruct access to or use of any portion of public property, right-of-way, or transit facility or station, as defined in RCW 9.91.025(2)(a) unless authorized by a local or state emergency declaration or pursuant to a permit.

2. A person shall not camp in or upon any portion of public property or right-of-way unless authorized by a local or state emergency declaration or pursuant to a permit.

3. The following shall not be considered camping or knowingly obstructing access to and use of public property if:

1. 1. Committing such acts as a valid exercise of one’s constitutional rights, which incidentally obstruct access to and use of public property to exercise that right;

1. 2. Summoning aid for an emergency;

1. 3. Obstructing access as a result of a sensory, mental, or physical disability;

1. 4. Obstructing access as a result of using a wheelchair, walker, or similar device;

1. 5. Operating or patronizing a licensed and permitted commercial establishment conducted on public property, or waiting in a line to purchase tickets or attend a performance or public event, or to gain entry to a business or non-profit adjacent to public property;

1. 6. Participating in or attending a parade, festival, block party, performance, rally, demonstration, athletic event, meeting, or similar event conducted on public property pursuant to a special event or other applicable permit; or

1. 7. Resting while waiting for transportation or resting on a chair, bench, parklet, sidewalk café, or streatery supplied by a public agency or by the abutting private property owner or lessee for that purpose pursuant to a permit or license.

4. A violation of this section is a misdemeanor.

5. A Spokane police officer may enforce any violation of Subsection A. At their discretion, an officer may also offer the person City-designated outreach or other available services as described in Subsection F.

6. A Spokane police officer may enforce any violation of the citywide prohibition as declared in subsection B. At their discretion, a Spokane police officer may also offer the person first responder or city designated outreach services to navigate or transport them to facilities including, but not limited to:

1. 1. an emergency or permanent housing solution;

1. 2. a day center;

1. 3. a crisis stabilization or relief center;

1. 4. substance use treatment facility;

1. 5. an emergency room or urgent care center.

7. A person may be granted additional time or assistance in complying with subsection B to the extent necessary to prevent loss or damage to the person’s personal property.

 

Date Passed: Monday, October 27, 2025

Effective Date: Monday, October 27, 2025

ORD C36785 Section 7