San Antonio, TX Public Conduct: Aggressive Panhandling (2026)
Key Facts
- Code section
- SAMC Chapter 21
- First fine ceiling
- Up to $500 Class C
- ATM buffer
- Solicitation banned near machines
- Repeat charge
- Class B misdemeanor possible
- Passive begging
- Constitutionally protected speech
Summary
San Antonio Municipal Code Chapter 21 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 offensive contact. Passive sign-holding remains protected speech.
(a) A local authority shall grant authorization for a person to stand in a roadway to solicit a charitable contribution as provided by Section 552.007(a) if the persons to be engaged in the solicitation are employees or agents of the local authority and the other requirements of this section are met.(b) A person seeking authorization under this section shall file a written application with the local authority not later than the 11th day before the date the solicitation is to begin.
Full Breakdown
San Antonio targets aggressive panhandling through SAMC Chapter 21 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. SAPD 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.
Violations & Fines
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, plus possible Bexar County prosecution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone hold a sign asking for money in San Antonio?
Where is solicitation specifically prohibited in San Antonio?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Antonio
Texas rules heatmap·Compare San Antonio to another location·View the Texas public conduct overview
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Aggressive Panhandling in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Bexar County handle aggressive panhandling.