Fresno Municipal Code Chapter 9 prohibits urinating or defecating in public view, on streets, sidewalks, parks, or private property without consent, treating violations as a misdemeanor or infraction.
FMC Chapter 9 makes public urination and defecation a misdemeanor, with prosecutors typically reducing to infractions for first-time offenders. The ordinance covers any public place, sidewalk, alley, park, parking lot, or private property without consent. Officers commonly cite in entertainment districts like the Tower District after bar closing. Penalties include fines and potential community service. Repeat offenders face possible misdemeanor prosecution. The ordinance exempts emergencies and small children. Restrooms are limited downtown, prompting periodic enforcement debates.
Urinating or defecating in any public place or visible area is cited as an infraction or misdemeanor with fines, court costs, and potential community service.
See how Fresno's public urination rules stack up against other locations.
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