Longview, TX Homelessness & Encampment Rules: Sit-Lie Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Citation
- Sec. 58-77, Longview Code of Ordinances
- Prohibited act
- Sleeping or lounging on public property
- Applies when
- Use blocks the space's intended purpose
- Exception
- Permission granted by city representative
- Penalty
- Fine up to $500 (Sec. 1-4)
Summary
Longview makes it a misdemeanor to sleep or lounge on public sidewalks, streets, or other public property when it blocks others from walking, running, or using the space.
It is unlawful for any person to sleep or lounge in or upon any public street, alley, highway, sidewalk or other public property where others tend to walk, run, or otherwise travel upon or use when such impedes the recreational purposes, for which it is intended. It is an exception if the person or persons is specifically permitted to sleep or lounge upon said public property by ordinance or statute, or has been granted permission by a representative of the City of Longview having authority to grant such permission.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: June 2026: This code is current through Ordinances 4635 passed 06.25.26).
Full Breakdown
Section 58-77 of the Longview Code of Ordinances makes it unlawful to sleep or lounge on any public street, alley, highway, sidewalk, or other public property where people walk, run, or travel, when that use blocks the space's intended purpose. 'Sleep' covers the appearance of the body at rest with consciousness suspended; 'lounge' covers sitting or standing in a relaxed manner for more than a moment. The ordinance exempts anyone specifically authorized to sleep or lounge there by another ordinance, statute, or by a city representative with authority to grant permission. Violators face Longview's general penalty of a fine up to $500 under Section 1-4, since no specific fine is set for this offense.
Violations & Fines
Violation is punishable by a fine of up to $500 under Longview's general penalty provision, Section 1-4, since no specific penalty applies; each day the violation continues is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sleeping on a Longview sidewalk illegal?
Can someone get permission to lounge in public in Longview?
What's the penalty for violating Longview's sleeping and lounging ban?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Longview
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Longview to another location·View the Texas homelessness & encampment rules overview
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