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2d ago

San Diego County Advances Narrow Camping Ban Targeting Safety Hazards

The Board of Supervisors has given preliminary approval to an ordinance limiting enforcement to camps posing wildfire and health risks, with a final vote set for May 20.

A homeless encampment sits on a street in Downtown Los Angeles, California, USA.
Terri Sickels interviewed David (m) and James (r) during the annual point-in-time count for those living unsheltered. David has been homeless for the past 5 years and James for more than a year now. Both men are currently living at an encampment under the 163 freeway in Mission Valley near the San Diego Riverbed on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, in San Diego, CA. (Nelvin C. Cepeda / The San Diego Union-Tribune)

Overview

  • The San Diego County Board of Supervisors voted 4-0 to approve the initial draft of a camping ban focused on imminent safety risks in unincorporated areas.
  • The proposed ordinance permits citations only for campsites that pose dangers such as wildfire spread, serious injury, or communicable disease outbreaks.
  • The measure includes specific restrictions, such as banning the possession of lighters in tents, to reduce fire hazards.
  • This initial approval follows the U.S. Supreme Court's 2024 decision allowing encampment clearances regardless of shelter availability, prompting local governments to update enforcement policies.
  • The Board will hold a final vote on May 20, with the ordinance expected to take effect 30 days after approval if passed.