Rowlett, TX Public Conduct: Aggressive Panhandling (2026)
Key Facts
- Buffer zone
- 50 feet of ATMs/banks/fuel pumps
- Also barred
- following, repeated asks, blocking traffic
- Minor targeting barred
- soliciting under-16s
- Max fine
- $500 per offense
Summary
Rowlett bans loitering in any public place, or within 50 feet of an ATM, bank entrance, pay phone or fuel pump, for the purpose of aggressive panhandling.
It shall be unlawful for any person to loiter or to remain in a public place or within 50 feet of an automated teller machine, the entrance or exit of a bank, credit union, or other similar financial institution, an exterior public pay telephone, or a self-service fuel pump, for the purpose of aggressive panhandling.(c)It shall be unlawful for any person to sleep in a public transportation facility, a public place, a vacant lot, or a street, alley or park, unless the person owns the property or has the consent of the owner of property to sleep at that location. (Ord. No. 010-12, § 1, 5-1-2012)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 29).
Full Breakdown
Rowlett Code of Ordinances § 34-3(b) prohibits loitering in a public place, or within 50 feet of an ATM, bank/credit union entrance or exit, exterior pay telephone, or self-service fuel pump, for aggressive panhandling. Section 34-1 defines aggressive panhandling as soliciting money or a benefit in an intimidating, aggressive or abusive manner: approaching or following pedestrians, repeated soliciting after refusal, soliciting anyone under 16, abusive language meant to intimidate, unwanted physical contact, or blocking pedestrian or vehicle traffic.
Violations & Fines
Misdemeanor under the general penalty, § 1-13, fine up to $500; each day is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is all panhandling illegal in Rowlett?
What counts as aggressive under this ordinance?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Rowlett
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