Madera County, CA Public Conduct: Loitering Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Scope
- Off-street business parking lots only
- Trigger
- Told to leave, then refuses
- Posting required
- 1-inch lettering warning sign
- Penalty
- Misdemeanor
- Applies in
- Unincorporated Madera County only
Summary
In unincorporated Madera County, it's a misdemeanor to loiter in a business's off-street parking lot after the owner, manager, or a peace officer tells you to leave, but only where the required posted warning sign is displayed.
No person shall loiter or remain within the off-street parking facilities of any business establishments after having been requested to leave by the owner or manager of any such establishment or by any peace officer acting at the direction of such owner or manager.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 52).
Full Breakdown
Madera County Code § 9.48.010 bars loitering or remaining in the off-street parking facilities of any business after being asked to leave by the owner, manager, or a peace officer acting on their behalf. The rule only takes effect where the property owner posts a conspicuous sign, in letters at least one inch tall, reading 'Loitering Prohibited' and warning that violation is a misdemeanor (§ 9.48.020). A violation of § 9.48.010 is itself deemed a misdemeanor under § 9.48.030. This chapter governs unincorporated Madera County only: it does not apply inside the cities of Madera or Chowchilla.
Violations & Fines
Loitering in a posted off-street business parking lot after being told to leave by the owner, manager, or a peace officer is a misdemeanor under Madera County Code § 9.48.030.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this apply everywhere in Madera County, or just certain lots?
What happens if I refuse to leave after being asked?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Madera County
California rules heatmap·Compare Madera County to another location·View the California public conduct overview
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