Texarkana, TX Public Conduct: Aggressive Panhandling (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- City Code Ch. 28, Art. VII, Secs. 28-201–205
- Aggressive manner
- Blocking, following, profanity, threats
- Time restriction
- No panhandling after sunset/before sunrise
- Classification
- Class C misdemeanor per section
- Enacted
- Ord. No. 155-01, 6-25-2001
Summary
Texarkana bans panhandling that blocks paths, follows people, or uses profane or threatening language, plus nighttime and location-based solicitation.
Any person who panhandles in any of the following manners is guilty of a Class C misdemeanor: (1)By blocking the path of the person solicited along a sidewalk or street;(2)By following a person who walks away from the panhandler;(3)By using profane or abusive language, either during the solicitation or following a refusal; or(4)By any statement, gesture or other communication which a reasonable person in the situation of the person solicited would perceive to be a threat.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 27).
Full Breakdown
City ordinance splits panhandling into four separate offenses: soliciting after sunset or before sunrise, soliciting in prohibited spots like bus stops and vehicles on public roads, using aggressive manner such as blocking a sidewalk or following someone who walks away, and making false or misleading claims (like falsely claiming to be homeless or disabled) to get a donation. Each is its own Class C misdemeanor under Texarkana's police department enforcement.
Violations & Fines
Class C misdemeanor per offense, with each act charged separately; municipal court sets the fine under the general Class C schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as aggressive panhandling in Texarkana?
Can I panhandle at night in Texarkana?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Texarkana
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Texarkana to another location·View the Texas public conduct overview
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