Regulation of Camping

Regulation of Camping Ordinance No. 2103 & 2108 – Overview

The Regulation of Camping Ordinance No. 2103 & 2108 (referred to as the "Camping Code") governs camping activities on public property within Central Point, including areas such as parks, sidewalks, greenways, and park strips. This ordinance was enacted on August 11, 2023, to establish guidelines for camping on city property and to ensure public safety and accessibility.

About the Camping Code

In alignment with the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness and the goal of maintaining public spaces, the Central Point City Council has adopted Ordinance No. 2103 & 2108 (Title 7 of the City’s Municipal Code). This ordinance sets forth specific areas where camping is allowed and provides restrictions for areas where camping is prohibited.

Prohibited Camping Locations

The following locations are designated as prohibited for camping and the placement of camping materials:

• City Hall, Central Point Police Department, and adjacent sidewalks (140 S. 3rd St and 155 S. 2nd St)
• Bear Creek Greenway
• Don Jones Memorial Park and adjacent sidewalks (223 W. Vilas Road)
• Mae Richardson Elementary School playground and ballfields (200 W. Pine Street)
• Twin Creeks Park (555 Twin Creeks Crossing)
• Areas that obstruct emergency or non-emergency ingress, egress, or access
• Vehicle lanes, bicycle lanes, or roundabouts
• Streets closed for construction or other designated uses
• On a playground or sports field during hours of closure, or during hours of operation when the conduct disrupts or interferes with the intended purpose of the playground or sports field. Notwithstanding this Section 7.01.030(10), lying or sleeping in a City-owned park during hours of closure is not prohibited so long as the individual is  experiencing homelessness, is not on a playground or sports field, is not on a “school park” associated with a school, and is not violating any other subsection of this Chapter.
• Within 50 feet of the nearest edge (measured from top of bank) of any stream, creek, river, wetland or other waterway, and upon any land managed for the operation of regulatory compliance of the municipal water supply system, stormwater systems and associated natural outlets, and including bridges or paved surfaces within this designated area.
• On public right-of-way or public property within 500 feet of a school, including preschools and K-12 schools. 

Authorized Camping Locations and Regulations

Camping is permitted on other City-owned properties under the following conditions:

• Camping materials may be placed for a maximum of 24 hours in compliance with the ordinance.
• Guidelines for authorized camping include:
  • No open flames, fires, or cooking stoves
  • No unauthorized connections to electrical or utility services
  • Animals must be kept on a leash or within a crate
  • Adherence to additional safety standards

Enforcement and Support

Individuals found in violation of the Camping Code may be subject to removal or relocation, as per the provisions of the ordinance and applicable state law. The City will endeavor to connect individuals with local service providers to assist with housing and other support services.

For further information or assistance, please contact the Central Point City Offices.