Charleston Chapter 28 prohibits aggressive panhandling, including soliciting near ATMs, restaurants, and bus stops, while protecting passive solicitation as constitutionally protected speech.
Charleston Code Chapter 28 prohibits aggressive panhandling defined as solicitation involving touching, blocking a path, following after refusal, threats, or repeated requests. Soliciting within 20 feet of an ATM, outdoor dining area, bus stop, or after dark on public streets is restricted. The ordinance was narrowed after federal court rulings (Reed v. Town of Gilbert) confirmed passive sign-holding is protected speech and content-based panhandling bans face strict scrutiny. Charleston Police partner with One80 Place homeless services for outreach.
Aggressive panhandling is a misdemeanor with fines up to $500 and possible 30-day jail; repeat offenders may be subject to trespass orders from specific business corridors.
See how Charleston's aggressive panhandling rules stack up against other locations.
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