San Marcos, CA Homelessness & Encampment Rules: Encampment Sanitation (2026)

130 makes it unlawful for any person to camp, or to build or maintain an encampment, on Public Property (streets, alleys, parking lots, sidewalks, parks, open space, waterways, rights-of-way, parkways and easements) at any time unless the City specifically authorizes it in writing. 110 to include residing on, occupying or storing personal property on public land, including tents, makeshift shelters, or any vehicle used for habitation, whether or not it is operable. 160 declares any encampment established in violation of the chapter a public nuisance that the City is authorized to abate and remove.

120 separately bars camping, erecting structures, driving nails into vegetation, moving rocks, or storing waste along the banks of any Waterway. 135 additionally prohibits camping while possessing an ignition source (lighters, camp stoves, generators) on public property, reflecting a 2025 amendment (Ord. No. 2025-1565) aimed at wildfire risk from encampments. 170, an authorized City employee, contractor, or the County Sheriff's Department must post or leave written notice giving the property owner at least 24 hours to relocate belongings, unless the property poses an immediate threat to public health or safety, in which case the deadline can be shorter.

The notice must state the cleanup date, storage location, how to reclaim items, and a phone number for information. Removed property is inventoried and held for at least 90 days before the City may dispose of it, except trash, perishables, contraband, or evidence, which may be disposed of immediately without notice.