NORMAN, Okla. – The Norman City Council is set to discuss a proposed ordinance Tuesday that could allow unhoused individuals to camp on private residential property.
According to the proposed ordinance, homeowners would be able to apply for permits to grant up to two people to set up a temporary shelter in their front yard for 90 days.
What are the requirements for the permit?
- The lots used for camping must be residential and have an owner-occupied dwelling.
- The person applying for the permit must be the record owner of the property and provide written consent to city officials.
- The property must be connected to working water and sewer services.
- The homeowner shall provide access to a restroom inside the home and drinking water.
- The homeowner cannot accept rent or other compensation in exchange for the encampment.
- Permits will expire 90 days after it is issued, unless it is revoked earlier or the city manager grants a 90-day extension.
What would be the requirements for the encampments?
- The temporary shelter must be located in a property’s front yard in a city-approved area.
- Only one temporary shelter with up to two people is allowed on the lot.
- The temporary shelter cannot be located within 15 feet of public sidewalks, 20 feet of street intersections, eight feet of side property lines, or any drainage/utility easement.
- The temporary shelter cannot obstruct vehicular sight distance, sidewalks, driveways, fire access or pedestrians.
- The temporary shelter cannot be in the public right-of-way.
According to city documents, the ordinance will expire a year after the City Council approves it. Council members can also choose to extend it…