Marietta City Council Considers Ordinance to Prohibit Unauthorized Use of Private Property

The Marietta City Council is deliberating on a new ordinance that seeks to outlaw the act of camping, sleeping, or resting on private property without the explicit permission of the owner. This ordinance, identified as proposal 20250074, would criminalize various activities including storing personal belongings and lying down on property that one does not own or lease. While the ordinance outlines the prohibited uses of private property, it does not clarify which groups or individuals it is aimed at, leaving some community members questioning its intent. The measure has been prompted by concerns over unauthorized occupation of private spaces, a topic that resonates with ongoing debates about property rights and homelessness in urban areas. Channel 2 Action News has proactively contacted the Marietta City Council for further details on the ordinance's implications and the factors leading to its proposal.

As discussions unfold, the council's decision could significantly affect the local community's relationship with private property, particularly for those without stable housing. The proposed ordinance underscores the tension between property rights and public space usage, a critical issue in many cities today. Community members are encouraged to stay informed as the council evaluates this important piece of legislation.