King County Challenges Burien's Camping Ban in Court

The legal dispute centers on the ordinance's constitutionality and its impact on homelessness.

King County and the King County Sheriff's Office have filed a complaint in U.S. District Court challenging the constitutionality of Burien's updated camping ban.
The legal action follows the Sheriff's Office's refusal to enforce the tightened camping ban, citing potential constitutional violations.
Burien's new ordinance restricts daytime camping and establishes 500-foot buffer zones around critical areas, significantly limiting where people can sleep at night.
Burien's Mayor Kevin Schilling considers establishing a city-run police department in response to the Sheriff's Office's decision not to enforce the ordinance.
The Seattle Times editorial board criticizes Burien's anti-camping ordinance, arguing it is not a solution to homelessness and has serious constitutional issues.