Houston Code Chapter 28, Article XV bans aggressive solicitation involving touching, blocking pedestrians, persistent following, threatening conduct, or solicitation near ATMs and bus stops. Texas Penal Code Section 22.06 covers any physical contact. Passive sign-holding remains protected speech.
Houston targets aggressive panhandling through Chapter 28 of the Code of Ordinances rather than a flat ban on begging, which the Fifth Circuit struck down in cases like Reynolds v. Middleton. The ordinance prohibits solicitation involving physical touching, blocking pedestrian or vehicle movement, persistent following after refusal, profane or threatening language, or asking for money near ATMs, banks, bus stops, gas pumps, and outdoor patios. Solicitation from a vehicle on the roadway is also restricted. Texas Penal Code Section 22.06 (offensive contact) and Section 42.072 (stalking) supplement enforcement. HPD typically issues warnings before citing. The first violation is a Class C misdemeanor; threatening conduct can become Class B. Passive sign-holding remains constitutionally protected.
First violation is a Class C misdemeanor with fines up to $500. Threatening conduct, repeat offenses, or assault upgrades the charge to Class B misdemeanor with up to 180 days jail and $2,000 fine.
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