Winston-Salem's Public Conduct: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles public conduct a little differently. In Winston-Salem, North Carolina, there are 5 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

It is unlawful to drink or carry an open container of beer or unfortified wine on Winston-Salem's public streets or on any property the city owns, occupies, or controls, unless you are riding in a vehicle.

Key details: Where banned: Public streets & city property. Covers: Malt beverages & unfortified wine. Exempt: Occupants of a motor vehicle. Penalty: Class 3 misdemeanor, up to $500. Also unlawful: Discarding beer/wine containers in public.

Violating Sec. 38-9 is a class 3 misdemeanor under G.S. 14-4, carrying a fine of up to $500.00 per offense.

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

Loitering Rules

Winston-Salem makes it unlawful to remain or wander about any public place under circumstances that manifest intent to violate the state Controlled Substances Act, using a list of observable behaviors as evidence. Violators face a class 3 misdemeanor and a fine of up to $500.00.

Key details: Penalty class: Class 3 misdemeanor. Maximum fine: $500.00. Behavioral factors listed: Six factors. Scope: Any public place citywide. Protected activity: First Amendment conduct exempt.

A violation of § 38-29 is a class 3 misdemeanor as provided by G.S. 14-4, punishable by a fine of up to $500.00.

Skateboarding Rules

Skateboards, roller skates, and similar wheeled toys are banned on streets, sidewalks, parks, and public property within Winston-Salem's central business district, a violation punishable as a class 3 misdemeanor with a fine of up to $500.

Key details: Banned zone: Central business district only. Devices covered: Skateboards, roller skates, sleds, coasters, wagons. Penalty: Class 3 misdemeanor, fine up to $500. Citation: Code of Ordinances § 74-20.

Violating § 74-20 is a class 3 misdemeanor under G.S. 14-4, punishable by a fine of up to $500.00 per offense.

Compared to other cities, Winston-Salem takes a harder line on skateboarding rules. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Public Urination

Winston-Salem bans urinating or defecating in any public place, street, sidewalk, right-of-way, or public building except in designated restrooms, treating a violation as a class 3 misdemeanor punishable by up to a $500 fine.

Key details: Citation: § 38-30. Penalty: Class 3 misdemeanor, up to $500. Covers: Public and private property. Exception: Designated restrooms/toilet facilities. Defense: Owner's written permission on private property.

Urinating or defecating in a public place, street, sidewalk, or public building, or on private property without the owner's written permission, is a class 3 misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $500.00.

Compared to other cities, Winston-Salem takes a harder line on public urination. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Aggressive Panhandling

Winston-Salem bans accosting, blocking, or forcing oneself on anyone while begging, plus soliciting near ATMs, bus stops, parking garages, schools, and after dark; panhandlers must also carry a city-issued license.

Key details: Governing section: City Code § 38-31(e). No-solicit zone: 100 feet of banks/ATMs. License: free panhandler badge required. Penalty: class 3 misdemeanor, up to $500. Timing limit: no soliciting after dark.

Accosting, blocking, touching without consent, or soliciting near an ATM, bank, transit stop, or after dark is a class 3 misdemeanor under G.S. 14-4, fined up to $500; unlicensed panhandling is a separate misdemeanor.

Compared to other cities, Winston-Salem takes a harder line on aggressive panhandling. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

The Bottom Line

Winston-Salem is tougher than many cities when it comes to public conduct. Out of the 5 rules covered here, 4 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Winston-Salem, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

All of the above reflects Winston-Salem's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.