New Port Richey, FL Homelessness & Encampment Rules: Encampment Sanitation (2026)
Key Facts
- Rule
- Camping banned on any property, citywide
- Max penalty
- $500 fine or 60 days jail
- Exemption
- Licensed campgrounds allowed
- Exemption
- Backyard camping under 48 hrs/90 days
- Adopted
- Ord. No. 2020-2195, amended 2024-2304
Summary
New Port Richey bans camping on any public or private property citywide, covering tents, RVs, and camping gear, with narrow exceptions for licensed campgrounds and short backyard stays.
It shall be unlawful and a violation of this Code of Ordinances to allow, engage in, or authorize camping on any public or private property in the city, except as otherwise allowed in this section... "Camping" shall mean and include: a. The placement, pitching, parking, use, occupancy, custody or control of camping facilities or camping equipment on any property; or b. Public camping or sleeping, as defined in F.S. section 125.0231, as amended from time to time
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 68).
Full Breakdown
Section 14-12 makes it unlawful to allow, engage in, or authorize camping on any public or private property in New Port Richey. "Camping" covers pitching tents, parking RVs or trailers for habitation, and using camping equipment like bedrolls or cooking gear outdoors, including public sleeping as defined by Fla. Stat. § 125.0231. Property owners, tenants, occupants, and managers share liability alongside campers. Exceptions allow unoccupied RV storage without utility hookups, licensed campgrounds, camping-gear retailers, backyard stays under 48 hours per 90-day period with the owner's permission, and city-approved recreational or special-event camping.
Violations & Fines
Violating the camping ban is a Code of Ordinances violation punishable under Sec. 1-14's general penalty: a fine up to $500, imprisonment up to 60 days, or both, with each day of continued violation a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to camp or sleep outside in New Port Richey?
Can property owners be cited if someone camps on their land?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in New Port Richey
Florida rules heatmap·Compare New Port Richey to another location·View the Florida homelessness & encampment rules overview
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