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Denton, TX Public Conduct: Aggressive Panhandling (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Violation class
Class C misdemeanor
Maximum fine
$500.00
Buffer after refusal
5 feet
Governing section
City Code Sec. 21-6

Summary

Denton bans aggressive solicitation: nonconsensual contact, blocking someone's path, or threats made while asking for money. Violators face a Class C misdemeanor and up to a $500 fine.

(3) Continuing to solicit within five (5) feet of the person being solicited after the person has given or expressed a negative response, if continuing the solicitation is intended to cause a reasonable person to be intimidated into responding affirmatively... (b) It shall be unlawful for a person to solicit in an aggressive manner. Any person violating this section may be subject to prosecution for a class C misdemeanor and a fine not to exceed $500.00.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 37 Update 1 | Development Code: Supplement 27).

Full Breakdown

City Code Sec. 21-6 makes it unlawful to solicit in an "aggressive manner," defined to include making nonconsensual physical contact, following or approaching someone in a way meant to intimidate, continuing to ask within five feet after a refusal, blocking a person's or driver's path, or making threatening statements or gestures during the ask. Ordinary panhandling that isn't aggressive is not covered by this section.

Violations & Fines

Class C misdemeanor, fine up to $500.00 per offense, enforced by Denton Police.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is all panhandling illegal in Denton?
No. Only "aggressive" solicitation is banned: physical contact, intimidating following, blocking your path, or threats. Passive panhandling isn't covered by this section.
What happens if someone violates the aggressive solicitation ban?
They can be prosecuted for a Class C misdemeanor with a fine up to $500.00 under City Code Sec. 21-6.

Sources & Official References

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All Denton rules

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Aggressive Panhandling in Nearby Cities

How other cities in Denton County handle aggressive panhandling.

Lewisville, TX
Significant Restrictions