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Philadelphia, PA Public Conduct: Loitering Rules (2026)

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

Key Facts

Governing section
Philadelphia Code § 10-603
Where banned
Transit platforms, public-facing private property
Max fine
$25 (§ 10-606)
Labor picketing
Exempt if lawful under labor statutes

Summary

Loitering that blocks passage on transit platforms or private property open to the public is banned citywide under Philadelphia Code § 10-603.

No person shall loiter in, on or about any underground platform or concourse, or any elevated platform serving public transportation facilities, or any underground or elevated passageway used by the public, or any railroad or railway passenger station or platform, or on the steps leading to any of them. No person shall loiter in, on or about private property used to accommodate the public.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 Code: Electronic version of The Philadelphia Code and Home Rule Charter is current through August 19, 2026).

Full Breakdown

Philadelphia Code § 10-603 bars loitering, defined as idling or lounging so as to prevent others' passage, ingress or egress, on underground or elevated transit platforms, passageways, railroad stations, and their steps, plus any private property used to accommodate the public (stores, sidewalks and streets adjacent to them). Owners or managers of such property must first ask a violator to correct the conduct voluntarily; if the person refuses, the owner must report it to the Police Department and cooperate in removing the violator. The ban exempts lawful labor-union picketing under state and federal labor statutes. Violations fall under the Title 10 Chapter 6 penalty at § 10-606.

Violations & Fines

Fine up to $25 under § 10-606; property owners must ask violators to leave and report refusals to police.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is all loitering illegal in Philadelphia?
No, § 10-603 only bans loitering that blocks passage on transit platforms/passageways or on private property that accommodates the public, like store entrances.
What must a property owner do before police get involved?
The owner or manager must first ask the person to voluntarily correct the violation, then report refusals to the Police Department under § 10-603(3).

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Philadelphia

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All Philadelphia rules

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