Chapter 9.52
AGGRESSIVE BEGGING

Sections:

9.52.010    Unlawful.

9.52.020    Definitions.

9.52.030    Violation—Penalty.

9.52.010 Unlawful.

It is unlawful for a person to aggressively beg as defined by this section. A person is guilty of aggressive begging if he or she:

A.    Begs in a manner that hinders or obstructs the free passage of any person in a public place; or

B.    By physical action while in the act of begging, intentionally causes or attempts to cause another person reasonably to fear imminent bodily harm or the commission of a criminal act upon their person, or upon property in their immediate possession. (Ord. 1353-87 § 1 (A), 1987)

9.52.020 Definitions.

As used in this section:

A.    “Bodily harm” means:

1.    Physical pain; or

2.    An impairment or physical condition.

B.    “Hinder or obstruct” means to walk, stand, sit or lie in such a manner as to block or attempt to block or restrict passage by others or to require persons approaching to take evasive action to avoid physical contact.

C.    “Public place” is an area generally visible to public view and includes streets, sidewalks, bridges, alleys, plazas, parks, driveways, parking lots and buildings open to the general public, including those that serve food or drink or provide entertainment, and the doorways and entrances to buildings or dwellings and the grounds enclosing them.

D.    “To beg” means to stop or accost others, or direct persons or animals to stop or accost others, and to ask for money whether by words, bodily gestures, signs or other devices. (Ord. 1353-87 § 1 (B), 1987)

9.52.030 Violation—Penalty.

Conduct made unlawful by this chapter constitutes a misdemeanor and any person convicted thereof may be punished by a fine or forfeiture not to exceed one thousand dollars. (Ord. 1353-87 § 1 (C), 1987)