Gov. Gavin Newsom is urging local governments to take stronger action against homeless encampments by adopting a model ordinance that effectively bans long-term camping on public property, including makeshift structures and street-blocking encampments.
- The new model ordinance, released earlier this year, lays out key restrictions: banning camping in the same spot for more than three consecutive nights, prohibiting semi-permanent structures, and requiring clear pedestrian access on sidewalks and streets. It also mandates outreach and at least 48 hours’ notice before a site can be cleared—except in emergencies.
Gov. Gavin Newsom is urging local governments to take stronger action against homeless encampments by adopting a model ordinance that effectively bans long-term camping on public property, including makeshift structures and street-blocking encampments.
The call comes as cities like Bakersfield ramp up enforcement. In February and April, the Bakersfield Police Department participated in several joint-operations, one of which removed 31 encampments from riverbeds and downtown areas.
“We always go in with the intention to help,” said Sgt. Alex Paiz with BPD’s Impact Unit. “But often, people refuse services.”…