Spokane City Council to Consider New Camping and Obstruction Ordinance

The Spokane City Council will vote on the “Safe and Accessible Spaces” ordinance during a legislative session at 6 p. m. on October 27, 2025. This proposed legislation gives Spokane Police Department officers the authority to offer services to willing suspects or issue citations for repeat offenders who camp or obstruct public spaces. The ordinance aims to enforce stricter regulations against illegal activities on public property, including rights-of-way and entrances to private property.

This measure follows discussions at a recent Public Safety and Community Health Committee meeting, where council members suspended rules to expedite its inclusion on the agenda. Citizens interested in testifying can sign up through the City Council Public Comment Sign-up Form. The legislative session will be accessible for public viewing via Channel 5, CityCable5 online, and the Spokane City Council Facebook page. If passed, this ordinance could significantly impact local law enforcement practices and community safety. The council’s decision reflects ongoing efforts to address public safety concerns in Spokane.