Urinating or defecating in public spaces in the District is a civil infraction under DC Code 22-1321 and DCMR Title 16, carrying fines but generally not criminal arrest unless aggravated.
DC reformed public urination from a criminal offense to a civil infraction in 2014 through the Reducing Recidivism Reform Amendment Act. Today, MPD and Park Police can issue a $35 to $500 civil ticket under DC Code 22-1321 (disorderly conduct) and DCMR Title 16. Aggravating circumstances such as public lewdness, refusal to provide ID, or repeated violations may still trigger criminal disorderly-conduct or sex-offense charges. The reform was driven by concerns about the criminalization of homelessness and over-arrest in nightlife districts like Adams Morgan and U Street.
First offenses typically result in a civil fine. Repeat or aggravated offenses can be charged criminally as disorderly conduct under DC Code 22-1321, with potential arrest and court fines.
See how Washington's public urination rules stack up against other locations.
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