Onslow County, NC Public Conduct: Aggressive Panhandling (2026)

Section 11-3 of the Onslow County Code of Ordinances regulates begging and canvassing the public for contributions on public rights-of-way. highway ramp or interchange, inside any county park, and within 100 feet of any road intersection unless done on private property with written permission. A separate 'manner' clause makes it a misdemeanor to solicit while coming within three feet of the target before they indicate a willingness to give, while intoxicated or having illegally used a controlled substance, by blocking a sidewalk or street, by following someone who has walked away, by using profane or abusive language, by soliciting in a group of two or more, by making a threatening statement or gesture, or by touching the person without consent.

The ordinance also criminalizes false or misleading claims made while soliciting, such as falsely claiming to be homeless, a veteran, disabled, or stranded, or misrepresenting the purpose of the donation. Prohibited acts additionally include stepping into a roadway, exchanging items with vehicle occupants, displaying a sign larger than two feet in any dimension, or stopping traffic outside a required signal stop. S. 153A-126 and applies countywide in the unincorporated area and any location described, including county parks.