CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The city’s governing body is considering an ordinance that would create a permitting process for outdoor camping.
The ordinance amends language in Title 8, Health and Safety, that lowers consequences for those criminally prosecuted for camping in public spaces.
Notable alterations to city code are as follows:
- Current city code mentions Crow Creek as a hotspot for camping. The ordinance removes mention of Crow Creek and instead replaces it with “waterways of the city.”
- The ordinance implements a permitting process that would allow for legal camping.
- Although violating this portion of city code would still be tried as a misdemeanor, jail time is no longer a punishment for the crime. The maximum fine was also reduced from $750 to $50. The court will factor in whether a person attempted to engage with public or private resources when considering their sentence.
- If the city must collect personal property due to emergency abatement, then it will hold onto the belongings for 48 hours.
Camping is currently outlawed on public property because it is considered a health hazard, according to city code. Camping contributes to unsanitary conditions and littering and can cause damage to city water quality. Trash and other discarded objects can also heighten the city’s risk of fire outbreaks. Those camping may also utilize an unregulated fuel source, which also heightens risk of a fire outbreak.
The Cheyenne City Council passed the ordinance on second reading. Councilmembers on the Public Services Committee will review it again Dec. 17. The city’s governing body will then take the regulations up again for a third and final vote at its Dec. 23 meeting.
A copy of the ordinance can be viewed below.
