Westchester cities prohibit aggressive panhandling that involves threats, blocking pathways, or solicitation near ATMs, while passive panhandling generally remains protected speech under the First Amendment after the Supreme Court Reed v. Town of Gilbert decision.
Yonkers, White Plains, New Rochelle, and Mount Vernon have aggressive-panhandling ordinances banning solicitation that involves intimidation, physical contact, following a person, or asking near ATMs, banks, bus stops, and outdoor seating. Many Westchester ordinances were narrowed after the 2015 Supreme Court ruling to focus on conduct rather than message. Westchester County itself does not regulate panhandling on city streets but enforces conduct rules in county parks. Disorderly conduct and harassment under NY Penal Law also apply.
Aggressive panhandling is typically a violation or class B misdemeanor with fines up to $250 and the possibility of short jail time for repeat offenders or threats.
See how Yonkers's aggressive panhandling rules stack up against other locations.
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