Des Moines does not have a dedicated sit-lie ordinance. Sidewalk and right-of-way obstruction is enforced through general public-conduct provisions in Code Ch. 86 Streets and Ch. 60 Misdemeanors, applied to all users equally.
Des Moines has not enacted a status-based sit-lie or anti-camping ordinance modeled on Los Angeles 41.18. Instead, conduct on sidewalks and in the public right-of-way is regulated through Code of Ordinances Chapter 86 Streets and Sidewalks and Chapter 60 Miscellaneous Offenses, which prohibit obstructing pedestrian traffic, blocking ADA-required accessible paths, and similar conduct that applies to all users. Officers can issue citations or move-along orders, but criminalization of sitting or lying alone, without obstruction, is not the model used in Des Moines. After Martin v. Boise and Grants Pass, enforcement choices have continued to evolve, and outreach is coordinated with Polk County Continuum of Care providers.
Obstructing a sidewalk, ADA path, or right-of-way can lead to citation, fine, and required clearance; outreach providers like Joppa coordinate with the city on alternatives to citation.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments on residential property. Chapter 60 (Housing) requires reasonable property maintenance and could ...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Chapter 48 (Noise) standards could theoretically apply to overnight blow...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no municipal ordinance regulating residential holiday lights. Display timing, brightness, and animation are governed primarily by HOA and cond...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines requires building permits for permanent outdoor kitchen installations with gas lines, electrical wiring, plumbing, or structural roofs under Chapt...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no smoker-specific ordinance. Open burning is regulated under Chapter 70 (Fire Prevention) and Iowa Code 100B with cooking-fire exemptions. Io...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines Fire Code under Chapter 26, Article XII adopts the International Fire Code (IFC). IFC 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and LP-gas tank...
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