Spokane's Public Conduct: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles public conduct a little differently. In Spokane, Washington, there are 4 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.

Public Alcohol Use

Spokane prohibits open alcohol containers in public streets, sidewalks, parks, and parking lots under SMC Chapter 10 and RCW 66.44. Designated event areas and licensed sidewalk cafes are the limited exceptions.

Key details: State statute: RCW 66.44.100. Citation: $103 civil infraction. Park status: Alcohol prohibited. Event exceptions: Permitted beer gardens.

Open container in public is a Class 3 civil infraction under RCW 66.44.100, currently $103; repeated or aggravated cases can be charged as misdemeanor public intoxication.

Aggressive Panhandling

Spokane prohibits aggressive panhandling that involves intimidation, blocking pathways, or following people, but passive panhandling is constitutionally protected speech. Time and place rules near ATMs and bus stops apply citywide.

Key details: Code chapter: SMC Ch. 10. ATM buffer: Restricted nearby. Passive begging: Protected speech. Penalty: Misdemeanor.

Aggressive solicitation is a misdemeanor under SMC Ch. 10 punishable by up to 90 days jail and $1,000 fine; first offenses typically result in a warning.

Public Urination

Spokane prohibits urination and defecation in public spaces under SMC Chapter 10 nuisance and public conduct provisions. Violations are misdemeanors but Spokane Police typically issue civil citations or warnings for first offenses.

Key details: Code chapter: SMC Ch. 10. State law: RCW 9A.88.010. Penalty: Misdemeanor. Hot zone: Downtown bar district.

Public urination is a misdemeanor under SMC Ch. 10; indecent exposure under RCW 9A.88.010 is a gross misdemeanor with potential sex offender registration if minors present.

Public Marijuana Use

Although Washington legalized recreational cannabis under I-502, public consumption is prohibited statewide under RCW 69.50.445. Spokane enforces this as a civil infraction with $103 ticket plus possible additional municipal sanctions.

Key details: Citation amount: $103. State statute: RCW 69.50.445. Indoor smoking: RCW 70.160 also applies. Lounges allowed: No state authorization.

$103 civil infraction under RCW 69.50.445; smoking in places banned for tobacco adds a $100 fine under RCW 70.160; multiple violations can support trespass orders.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Spokane actively enforces its public marijuana use requirements.

The Bottom Line

Spokane's public conduct rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Spokane is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Spokane's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.