Spokane City Council to Consider New Camping and Obstruction Ordinance

Spokane City Council will vote on the "Safe and Accessible Spaces" ordinance during a legislative session at 6 p. m. on October 27, 2025. The ordinance, which was discussed at a recent Public Safety and Community Health Committee meeting, aims to criminalize camping and obstruction on all public property. Spokane Police Department officers would have the discretion to offer services to willing suspects or cite violators, with increasing penalties for repeat offenders.

The council suspended rules to include this ordinance in tonight's agenda, indicating its urgency. Residents interested in providing testimony can do so through the City Council Public Comment Sign-up Form. The legislative session will be available for live viewing on Channel 5, CityCable5 online, and the Spokane City Council Facebook page. This proposed legislation reflects ongoing efforts in Spokane to address homelessness and public safety concerns. If passed, the ordinance may significantly impact how the city manages public spaces and resources related to homelessness.