Chico, CA Homelessness & Encampment Rules: Sit-Lie Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Hours/scope
- 7 a.m.-11 p.m., commercial areas
- Fines
- $100 / $200 / $300 escalating
- Exempt
- Disability, medical emergency, permits
- Applies to
- Commercial-zoned sidewalks only
Summary
Chico bans sitting or lying on sidewalks in commercial areas from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., with exceptions for disability, emergencies, and permitted events.
No person shall sit or lie down upon a public sidewalk, curb or street, or upon a blanket, stool, chair or other object placed upon a public sidewalk, curb or street which is adjacent to any property zoned or used for commercial uses, as defined in Title 19 of this Code, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m.
B. Exceptions. This section shall not apply to any person:
1. Sitting or lying down on a public sidewalk due to a medical emergency;
2. Using a wheelchair, walker or similar device as the result of a disability;
3. Operating or patronizing a commercial establishment conducted on the public sidewalk pursuant to an outdoor café permit issued pursuant to
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Supplement contains local legislation current through: Codified Resolution No. 53-26, adopted 7-14-26 and Ordinance No. 2622, adopted 6-2-26).
Full Breakdown
Chico Municipal Code Section 9.44.015 prohibits sitting or lying on a public sidewalk, curb, or street next to commercially zoned property between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. Exceptions cover medical emergencies, wheelchair or walker users, outdoor-cafe patrons, bench sitters, permitted parades and events, and children in strollers. Fines escalate with repeat offenses: up to $100 for a first violation, $200 for a second within a year, and $300 for a third or later violation within that same year.
Violations & Fines
A first violation is an infraction up to $100; a second within a year up to $200; a third or later within a year up to $300.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does Chico's sidewalk-sitting ban apply?
Are there exceptions to the ban?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
California rules heatmap·Compare Chico to another location·View the California homelessness & encampment rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.