Spokane prohibits urination and defecation in public spaces under SMC Chapter 10 nuisance and public conduct provisions. Violations are misdemeanors but Spokane Police typically issue civil citations or warnings for first offenses.
Public urination and defecation in Spokane are prohibited under SMC Chapter 10 as a public nuisance and under general indecent exposure provisions. The offense applies in streets, alleys, parks, parking lots, and any public-facing space, including private property visible from public view. Spokane Police often handle first offenses with warnings or civil citations rather than booking, particularly downtown where bar-closing-time enforcement is concentrated. Repeat offenses or conduct in front of minors can elevate to indecent exposure under RCW 9A.88.010, a more serious charge with sex offender registry implications in some scenarios.
Public urination is a misdemeanor under SMC Ch. 10; indecent exposure under RCW 9A.88.010 is a gross misdemeanor with potential sex offender registration if minors present.
See how Spokane's public urination rules stack up against other locations.
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