Terrebonne Parish, LA Homelessness & Encampment Rules: Encampment Sanitation (2026)

Sec. 19-7 defines "camp" as using a public area for living accommodations for an extended period of time, including storing personal belongings, building a campfire, using a tent or shelter, cooking, or digging and earth-breaking activities. "Public area" covers streets, road rights-of-way, the area under a highway overpass, sidewalks, boulevards, alleys, parking lots, and public parks, squares, spaces, grounds and buildings. It is unlawful to camp in any of those areas unless the site is designated as a campground. Before issuing a first-offense citation, a police officer must, unless there is an imminent health or safety threat, make a reasonable effort to advise the person of a lawful place to camp, tell them where a shelter or housing is located, and contact a parish designee who can arrange transport or services.

The section exempts people holding a valid permit to camp or cook in public, businesses operating lawfully on a sidewalk, people attending a parade, festival or similar event, anyone sitting on a public bench or chair, anyone waiting at a bus stop, and anyone waiting in line for goods or services. A first conviction draws a fine of no more than $25 or sixty hours of court-approved community service; a second or later conviction draws a fine of no more than $250 and/or sixty hours of community service.

The court may also order a referral to available social services at its discretion. The ordinance was adopted by Ordinance No. 9641 on September 10, 2024.