Lawrence, KS Homelessness & Encampment Rules: Sit-Lie Rules (2026)

Section 16-815(c) sits inside Article VIII, Temporary Use of Right-of-Way, and only reaches intentional obstruction of traffic, not mere presence on a sidewalk. Section 16-819(e) then carves out four situations where the obstruction ban does not apply: exercising a constitutional right to picket, protest or assemble, to the extent the article would otherwise impermissibly restrict that right; using a wheelchair, walker or similar device because of a disability; sitting or lying in the right-of-way due to a medical emergency; and an accident or mechanical failure that temporarily blocks traffic until it is cleared.

Section 16-819 also exempts lawful travel, patrons and operators of a licensed sidewalk dining enterprise, people attending a lawfully conducted parade or rally, and anyone sitting on a chair or bench supplied by a public agency or property owner or waiting at a bus stop. The chief of police can close a right-of-way in an emergency or ahead of a large crowd under section 16-803(b), but only for as long as necessary. Enforcement runs through the Lawrence Police Department, and a citation under this article follows the same municipal-offense process as any other Article VIII violation.