Proposed Camping Rules- Feedback Invited

Proposed Rules Have Been Adopted

Please see the MuniCode website for full details on the adopted camping rules.

Proposed Rules on Camping in Longmont

To assist those seeking help with homelessness, the City provides access to information about various services, including coordinated entry, navigation services, outreach programs, housing-focused shelters, and other services for adults, families, and youth.

Despite these efforts, people continue to camp on public land without a permit, violating current camping rules and regulations. The City is also seeing increased camping on other city-owned and private properties.

Section 10.24.120 has been added to the Longmont Municipal Code, which prohibits camping or lodging on public, City-owned, or private property without consent of the owner. The regulation defines "camping" as temporarily residing or dwelling in a place by using or erecting a shelter (other than park-provided shelters) for more than two hours. The new ordinance provides that the Director of Parks and Natural Resources will promulgate rules to administer, interpret, or enforce the provisions of the section. The rules will govern how the ordinance is enforced, such as allowing a more urgent response for sensitive environmental areas, and no criminal enforcement if shelter beds are unavailable that night.

The Longmont City Council is seeking public feedback on the proposed rules. Please share your thoughts by June 12, 2023, at 5:00 pm.

Proposed Rules 10.14.120

R101. Peace officers must first issue a warning to violators of the camping ban before issuing a citation.

R102. If the camper refuses to comply, the peace officer should evaluate the need for human services.

R104. If services are needed, peace officer attempts to connect the camper with referrals and services.

R105. If camper refuses to comply with service worker, or if no service worker can be reached, camping ban citation or arrest may follow.

R106. No citations may be issued on nights when there is no shelter bed space available in the County. However, peace officers may direct individuals in violation of the camping ordinance to immediately move if the campsite threatens sensitive wildlife habitat, culturally significant resources, or poses a direct threat to our watershed. Any property of recognizable value, not taken by the camper, will be stored and disposed of according to city policy.

R107. Written notice that an encampment will be cleared shall be posted at least 48 hours before removal. However, encampments that threaten sensitive wildlife habitat, culturally significant resources, or poses a direct threat to our watershed, may be immediately removed. Any property not taken by the camper will be stored and disposed of according to city policy.

R108. A summons may be issued immediately for unlawful recreational camping in sensitive areas, such as Button Rock Preserve.

R109. Permits for camping on city property may be obtained by the Director of Parks and Natural Resources.