Pontiac, MI Public Conduct: Aggressive Panhandling (2026)

Section 86-145 defines "aggressive manner" solicitation to include intentionally or recklessly touching the person solicited without consent, following them in a way meant to cause fear of harm or to intimidate an affirmative response, continuing to solicit within five feet after a negative response, blocking safe passage or forcing evasive action, using obscene or abusive language or gestures meant to intimidate, or approaching in a manner likely to cause fear. "Solicitation" is defined narrowly as an in-person request for an immediate money donation, and it expressly excludes passively sitting or standing with a sign.

Section 86-146 separately bars soliciting after sunset or before sunrise, and bars soliciting at a bus or train stop, inside a transit vehicle or facility, in a vehicle on the street, on private property without the owner's permission, or within 15 feet of a bank entrance, check-cashing business or ATM during its operating hours. Section 86-147 makes it a misdemeanor to solicit using false or misleading claims, such as falsely claiming to be stranded, homeless, disabled or a veteran, or spending donations collected for a stated purpose on something else.

Section 86-148 sets one penalty for all four sections: a fine not to exceed $500.00 or imprisonment not to exceed 90 days, or both, with community service available instead of or added to that penalty, and any arrest or conviction disclosed to government social service agencies that request notification.