Sammamish, WA Public Conduct: Public Urination (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- SMC 22.05.090
- First offense
- Civil fine up to $250.00
- Repeat offense
- Misdemeanor charge
- Required intent
- Act must be intentional
- Exempted location
- Washrooms and toilet rooms
Summary
Sammamish treats a first public urination or defecation offense as a civil infraction carrying up to a $250 fine; a second or later violation becomes a criminal misdemeanor under SMC 22.05.090.
Any person who intentionally urinates or defecates in a public place, other than a washroom or toilet room, or at a place and under circumstances where such act could be observed by any member of the public, shall be subject to a civil fine not to exceed $250.00 for a first offense. For second and subsequent charges, the person shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance O2026-598, and legislation passed through August 18, 2026).
Full Breakdown
00 for a first offense. ' The section requires intent, so an accident or medical emergency is not covered, and it exempts acts inside a washroom or toilet room even in a public building. The 'observed by any member of the public' language extends the rule beyond crowded areas to any spot where a passerby could plausibly see the act, not just designated public property. 05, Sammamish's general 'Miscellaneous Crimes' chapter, it is enforced by the Sammamish Police Department (contracted through the King County Sheriff's Office) rather than through the Title 23 SMC civil code compliance process used for property maintenance violations; a citing officer issues the civil infraction directly. 090 could still be charged under an adopted state offense.
Violations & Fines
A first offense draws a civil fine of up to $250.00 under SMC 22.05.090, issued as a civil infraction rather than a criminal charge. A second or any later offense is elevated to a misdemeanor, exposing the person to criminal penalties under Washington's misdemeanor sentencing framework rather than just a fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the fine for public urination in Sammamish the first time?
Does a second public urination citation carry a bigger fine?
Is using a portable toilet at an event exempt?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sammamish
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Public Urination in Nearby Cities
How other cities in King County handle public urination.