Spokane City Council to Consider New Camping and Obstruction Ordinance

Spokane City Council will vote on the “Safe and Accessible Spaces” ordinance on October 27, 2025, during its 6 p. m. legislative session. This ordinance, which was discussed in a recent Public Safety and Community Health Committee meeting, grants Spokane Police Department officers discretion to provide services to willing suspects or issue citations for violations. The legislation makes camping and obstruction illegal on all public property, including rights-of-way and entrances to private property.

The council suspended rules to include this ordinance on the agenda, reflecting urgency in addressing public safety concerns. Citizens wishing to testify can register through the City Council Public Comment Sign-up Form. The session will be streamed live on Channel 5, CityCable5, and the Spokane City Council Facebook page. This ordinance represents a significant step in local governance, aiming to enhance community health and safety. Officials anticipate the ordinance will address ongoing issues related to public space usage and safety.