Anaheim, CA Public Conduct: Aggressive Panhandling (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- AMC Section 7.30.030
- Classification
- Infraction
- Fine authority
- Gov. Code Sec. 36900
- Covered locations
- Sidewalks, lots, doorways, gas stations
- Key trigger
- Touching, blocking, following after refusal
Summary
Anaheim bars asking, begging or soliciting alms in an aggressive manner anywhere open to the public, including sidewalks, streets, parking lots and building entrances. "Aggressive manner" covers touching, blocking, following after a refusal, or threatening gestures. It is an infraction under state fine rules.
No person shall ask, beg, or solicit alms in an aggressive manner in any place open to the general public, whether publicly or privately owned, including but not limited to any sidewalks, streets, alleys, driveways, parking lots, parks, plazas, buildings, doorways and entrances to buildings, gasoline service stations, and the grounds around or enclosed by buildings.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-28: Code: Supplement contains: Local legislation current through Ord. 6627, passed 8-11-2026 | Zoning: Local legislation current through Ord. 6627, passed 8-11-2026).
Full Breakdown
030 prohibits asking, begging or soliciting alms in an aggressive manner in any place open to the general public, publicly or privately owned, including sidewalks, streets, alleys, driveways, parking lots, parks, plazas, buildings, doorways, entrances and gas stations. 020 defines "aggressive manner" to include approaching, speaking to or following a person in a way that would cause a reasonable person to fear bodily harm or a crime; touching another person without consent while soliciting; continuing to ask after a negative response; intentionally blocking or interfering with a person's safe passage; following a person after a refusal; making a threatening statement or gesture; performing an unrequested vehicle service (cleaning, washing, guarding) and then demanding payment; and blocking a person's entry to or exit from a vehicle or interfering with a vehicle's movement during solicitation.
010 describe aggressive panhandling as imperiling public safety, coercing unwilling contributions, and discouraging visitors, tourists and shoppers, which the city cites as its rationale for time, place and manner restrictions. 060 acknowledges the chapter overlaps with Penal Code Section 647(c) and states the local chapter operates only if that state provision is held invalid, reflecting a split between the Ninth Circuit's Blair v. Shanahan ruling and contrary California appellate decisions.
Violations & Fines
A violation of Section 7.30.030 is an infraction under Section 7.30.050, punishable by a fine set under Government Code Section 36900 or any successor provision. Section 7.30.040 clarifies the chapter does not excuse conduct otherwise unlawful, nor prohibit conduct otherwise expressly permitted by law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes panhandling "aggressive" under Anaheim's ordinance?
Where does Anaheim's aggressive panhandling ban apply?
What is the penalty for aggressive panhandling in Anaheim?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Anaheim
California rules heatmap·Compare Anaheim to another location·View the California public conduct overview
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