Spokane prohibits aggressive panhandling that involves intimidation, blocking pathways, or following people, but passive panhandling is constitutionally protected speech. Time and place rules near ATMs and bus stops apply citywide.
Spokane regulates aggressive solicitation under SMC Chapter 10, prohibiting conduct that involves intimidating gestures, blocking a pedestrian's path, following someone after a refusal, or making physical contact during a request for money. Begging itself is constitutionally protected speech under the First Amendment, so passive sign-holding cannot be banned. Solicitation is restricted near ATMs, bank entrances, bus stops, and inside public transit. Aggressive panhandling is a misdemeanor; the Spokane Police Department typically warns first and cites repeat offenders. The Downtown Spokane Partnership ambassadors also engage informally to connect panhandlers with services.
Aggressive solicitation is a misdemeanor under SMC Ch. 10 punishable by up to 90 days jail and $1,000 fine; first offenses typically result in a warning.
See how Spokane's aggressive panhandling rules stack up against other locations.
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