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Ceres, CA Public Conduct: Loitering Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Governing section
CMC § 9.01.020
Related street rule
CMC § 9.20.010
Max misdemeanor penalty
$1,000 fine / 6 months jail
Enforcing agency
Ceres Police Department

Summary

Ceres bans loitering that blocks sidewalks, streets, or building entrances, or that lingers on private or business property after being told to leave.

No person shall loiter in such a manner to: A. Obstruct the free passage of pedestrians or vehicles; B. Remain upon any business premises after its business hours, without the consent of the owner or legal occupant; C. Remain upon any private property without the written consent of the owner or legal occupant; or D. Remain upon any business premises or private property after having been asked to leave by the owner or legal occupant.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Municipal Code: Supplement 4).

Full Breakdown

Ceres Municipal Code § 9.01.020 makes it unlawful to loiter in a way that obstructs the free passage of pedestrians or vehicles, or to remain on business premises after hours or on private property without the owner's consent or after being asked to leave. A related street-obstruction rule, § 9.20.010, separately bars loitering, standing, or sitting on a public street, sidewalk, or crosswalk so as to hinder passage or annoy passersby. Both are enforced by the Ceres Police Department.

Violations & Fines

Violating § 9.01.020 is punishable under the Code's general penalty section, § 19.02.030 -- up to $1,000 and/or six months in County jail for a misdemeanor, or tiered fines of $100/$200/$500 for repeat infractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is loitering illegal in Ceres?
Yes -- CMC § 9.01.020 bans loitering that blocks pedestrian or vehicle passage, or that continues on private/business property after being told to leave.
Can I be cited for standing on a Ceres sidewalk?
Only if you hinder passage or annoy passersby -- CMC § 9.20.010 separately bars loitering, standing, or sitting that obstructs a street, sidewalk, or crosswalk.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Ceres

Fence Regulations: Height LimitsSome RestrictionsPublic Alcohol UseSome RestrictionsPublic UrinationHeavy RestrictionsSkateboarding RulesSome RestrictionsOutdoor Smoking RestrictionsSome RestrictionsLoud Party OrdinanceSome RestrictionsJaywalkingSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsFire Regulations: Smoke DetectorsSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage TreesSome RestrictionsHotels & Lodging: Transient Occupancy TaxSome Restrictions

All Ceres rules

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