Urinating or defecating in public view violates San Jose Municipal Code Chapter 10.06 and California Penal Code section 647(c) when conduct is offensive, with citations issued downtown, near bars, and during major events.
San Jose Municipal Code Chapter 10.06 prohibits offensive conduct in public spaces, including urination and defecation visible to others. California Penal Code section 647(c) supplements with a disorderly conduct misdemeanor when behavior offends public decency. SJPD typically cites in downtown entertainment districts, near SAP Center after events, and along light rail platforms. First offenses often resolve through diversion or community service; repeat offenders face mandatory court appearances. Sex offender registration under Penal Code section 290 generally does NOT apply for simple urination, but indecent exposure (Penal 314) charges can trigger registration if genitals are intentionally displayed.
Citations issue as infractions or misdemeanors with fines up to one thousand dollars and possible county jail; intentional exposure can elevate to Penal Code section 314 indecent exposure with registration consequences.
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