SDMC §54.0304 (anti-camping) and SDMC §86 (encroachment) restrict tents, sleeping, and personal property on public sidewalks, parks, and rights-of-way. Enforcement is constrained by Martin v. Boise and the 2023 Unsafe Camping Ordinance.
SDMC §54.0304 prohibits camping, lodging, or storage of personal effects on public property without permission. SDMC Chapter 86 (Encroachment) bans obstruction of sidewalks, requiring 36-inch ADA passage. The 2023 Unsafe Camping Ordinance (SDMC §54.0103) layers a stricter ban within two blocks of schools, transit hubs, parks, and shelters, and permits unconditional enforcement only when shelter beds are available, consistent with Martin v. Boise (9th Cir. 2018) and Johnson v. Grants Pass (2024). SDPD typically issues 72-hour notice before clearing encampments. The Homeless Strategies Department coordinates outreach and shelter placement.
Anti-camping violations are infractions starting at $100, escalating to misdemeanors with shelter offered. Property may be impounded for 90 days. ADA-blocking encroachments draw immediate cleanups. Constitutional challenges remain available where shelter is unavailable.
See how San Diego's lamc §41.18 encampment rule rules stack up against other locations.
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