Richmond Municipal Code Chapter 24 restricts aggressive panhandling involving threats, physical contact, or blocking pedestrians. Passive solicitation remains First Amendment protected, including downtown near the State Capitol and Monument Avenue intersections.
Richmond Municipal Code Chapter 24 prohibits aggressive panhandling defined as solicitation involving threats, intimidation, physical touching, blocking pedestrian or vehicle movement, or following a person after refusal. Passive holding of signs at sidewalks, parks, or median strips remains protected First Amendment expression following federal court decisions striking content-based bans. Richmond Police may cite or arrest for the conduct elements, not the begging itself. The ordinance is enforced primarily downtown near the State Capitol, in Carytown shopping districts, and around VCU Medical Center where complaints concentrate.
Aggressive panhandling under Chapter 24 is a Class 1 or 3 misdemeanor depending on conduct, carrying fines up to $2,500 and possible jail time for repeat or threatening incidents.
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