With staff citing an ongoing issue with individuals camping on public or private property without consent, Longmont City Council will discuss pursuing an ordinance to prohibit it on Tuesday.
During a study session, council may direct staff on any changes to an ordinance that could be brought back for an official vote.
According to a memo to city council, the ordinance as drafted defines camping as temporarily residing or dwelling in a place by using or erecting a shelter — other than park-provided shelters during the day — and conducting daily living activities such as eating or sleeping in such a place. It does not include napping or picnicking for up to two hours.
Current city rules only allow for camping in designated locations or with permission, while the proposed ordinance explicitly prohibits camping on public property or private property without consent. The ordinance would prohibit camping on private property without first obtaining permission from the owner of the property.
Staff said the definition aims to create a policy that helps those experiencing homelessness while keeping public spaces safe and enjoyable for members of the community.
“The proposed ordinance is necessary to maintain the safety, cleanliness and accessibility of public parks, trails and open space properties, while also providing support and assistance to individuals in need,” the memo said.
The memo notes that to assist individuals in violation of the ordinance, resources and information on available services will be provided.
If a person is found camping where they should not, individuals are informed of the violation, required to cease and provided with resources to assist them in finding services and a place to stay.
If the person has a large amount of personal property, it is tagged to notify them that they have 48 hours to remove their property before it is removed. The tag has written information on services and where to retrieve abandoned property deemed to be of value.
“Longmont’s rules will prohibit enforcement of the camping-without-a-permit ban on urban city property when there are no shelter beds available,” the memo added. “Camping does not include people using blankets, sleeping bags and other rudimentary protections from the elements, but does prohibit the erection of tents.”
The memo noted that Longmont Public Safety is utilizing two peer case managers to assist community members struggling with substance use and other barriers to housing, augmenting work being done by other community resources.
