Homelessness & Encampment Rules in Austin, TX (2026)
2 verified homelessness & encampment rules for Austin, Texas, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Sit-Lie Rules
In Austin's Downtown Community Court district, sitting or lying in the sidewalk right-of-way or sleeping outdoors is a criminal offense once an officer warns you. Voters restored this ban through Proposition B in May 2021 under City Code Section 9-4-14.
Austin Sidewalk Sit-Lie Ban in Downtown Community Court Area
Significant RestrictionsAustin City Code § 9-4-14(E), (G)
(E) A person commits an offense if, after having been notified by a law enforcement officer that the conduct violates this section: (1) the person is asleep outdoors; or (2) the person sits or lies down in the right-of-way between the roadway and the abutting property line or structure, or on an object placed in that area. … (G) It is an affirmative defense to prosecution if a person sits or li...
Encampment Sanitation
Before Austin clears a homeless encampment, staff posts closure signs at least 72 hours in advance, 7 days on parkland, and the Austin Police Department, the lead enforcer, offers free storage for belongings. The cleanup runs under the 2021 HEAL Initiative (Resolution 20210204-049).
Austin Homeless Encampment Cleanup Protocol: 72-Hour Notice, Storage
Some RestrictionsCity of Austin HSO — Encampment Cleanup Protocol (FAQs about Encampments); HEAL Initiative, Council Resolution No. 20210204-049
Staff posts signs at least 72 hours before the cleaning and closure so that people have notice of when the cleanup is occurring. On park property, staff provides 7 days notice before cleanup occurs. ... Austin Police Department (APD) is the lead department responsible for enforcing the ordinance. ... APD provides a list of resources to those persons experiencing homelessness which includes info...
Looking for Travis County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Austin city rules.
Homelessness & Encampment Rules in Travis County →