Hanford's Homelessness & Encampment Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles homelessness & encampment rules a little differently. In Hanford, California, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Encampment Sanitation

Camping, tents, and camping gear are banned on all Hanford public property except at city-sponsored events, with a set notice-and-impound process before belongings are cleared.

Key details: Where banned: All public property citywide. Exception: City-sponsored approved events only. Notice before cleanup: 72 hours (3 in emergency). Property held: At least 90 days.

Camping on public property is a public nuisance and a misdemeanor under § 12.24.130, up to $1,000 and one year in Kings County Jail, plus civil and administrative citation remedies.

This is one of the stricter rules in Hanford's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Sit-Lie Rules

Hanford bans sitting, lying down, or sleeping on public property citywide, including sidewalks, except that sitting is allowed in city parks during posted open hours.

Key details: Where banned: Sidewalks, rights-of-way, public property. Parks exception: Sitting OK during open hours. Adopted: Ord. 24-08, 10/1/2024. Enforcement: Immediate removal from site.

A violation is a public nuisance and can draw immediate removal from the location; combined with other Chapter 12.24 violations it can be charged as a misdemeanor with up to $1,000 and a year in Kings County Jail.

This is one of the stricter rules in Hanford's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Hanford is tougher than many cities when it comes to homelessness & encampment rules. Out of the 2 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Hanford, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Hanford can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.