Gwinnett County, GA Homelessness & Encampment Rules: Sit-Lie Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Where banned
- Streets, sidewalks, rights-of-way
- Warning required
- Yes, before arrest
- Max fine
- $1,000.00
- Max jail
- 60 days
- Exceptions
- Medical, wheelchairs, cafes, events
Summary
It is unlawful to camp, sleep, store belongings, or sit or lie on any Gwinnett County street, sidewalk or right-of-way, though a warning is required before arrest.
(c)Streets and sidewalks. It shall be unlawful to camp, sleep, store personal property, or to sit or lie down on any street or sidewalk or public right-of-way.(d)Other public property; blocking ingress and egress. It shall be unlawful to camp, sleep, store personal property, or to sit or lie down on any public property so as to interfere with the ingress or egress from buildings.(e)Warning. No person may be arrested for violating this section by simply sleeping, sitting or lying down in a prohibited location or for a prohibited period of time without having first received an oral or written warning to cease such unlawful conduct.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 9).
Full Breakdown
Sec. 66-7(c) of the county code bars camping, sleeping, storing personal property, or sitting or lying down on any street, sidewalk or public right-of-way in unincorporated Gwinnett County. The section lists exceptions such as medical emergencies, wheelchair users, parades, outdoor cafes, festivals, bus-zone seating and ticket lines. No one may be arrested for sitting, lying or sleeping in a prohibited spot without first getting an oral or written warning to stop. Violation is punishable by up to a $1,000 fine or 60 days in jail, or both, in the county recorder's court.
Violations & Fines
Up to $1,000 fine and/or 60 days in jail after a prior oral or written warning; enforced by the county police department.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to sit on a sidewalk in Gwinnett County?
What exceptions apply to the sit-lie rule?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Gwinnett County
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