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Governor’s Model Ordinance on Homeless Encampments: What Cities Must Know

Governor’s Model Ordinance on Homeless Encampments: What Cities Must Know

Legal Update: On May 12, 2025, Governor Newsom released a model ordinance designed to help cities and counties swiftly address hazardous and unsanitary encampments while connecting individuals experiencing homelessness with shelter and supportive services.  Governor Gavin Newsom released a statewide model ordinance designed to encourage California cities and counties to address homeless encampments swiftly while preserving dignity and ensuring access to services.  This model ordinance comes on the heels of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Grants Pass v. Johnson decision, which clarified that jurisdictions may enforce against camping on public property even when alternative shelter is not necessarily available.  The Governor’s action follows Executive Order N-1-24, which directed State agencies to prioritize the clearance of encampments on State property, and encouraged local governments to adopt similar policies.  With legal authority now firmly affirmed by the Supreme Court, the message to local governments is clear: there are no more excuses for inaction.  However, despite the Governor’s optimistic model ordinance, many challenges still face local agencies in...

Sidewalk Vending Regulation & Enforcement in California

Sidewalk Vending Regulation & Enforcement in California

California’s approach to sidewalk vending has undergone significant changes in recent years. With the passage of Senate Bill (SB) 946 in 2018, known as the Safe Sidewalk Vending Act, the state decriminalized sidewalk vending and mandated that local governments allow vendors to operate with limited restrictions. This law aimed to promote economic opportunity, particularly for low-income and immigrant communities, while fostering vibrant public spaces. However, it also created challenges for municipalities seeking to regulate sidewalk vending effectively. In 2022, SB 972 introduced additional provisions, specifically regulating sidewalk food vending by creating a new classification known as Compact Mobile Food Operations (CMFOs). While intended to clarify regulations, the law has added further complexity to enforcement efforts. This article outlines the current legal framework for sidewalk vending, the enforcement challenges cities and counties face, and potential strategies for maintaining compliance while protecting public health, safety, and welfare. The Legal Landscape of Sidewalk Vending SB 946: The Safe Sidewalk Vending Act SB 946 decriminalized sidewalk vending and...

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Located in Irvine, California, Serviam by Wright LLP is a leading law firm specializing in nuisance abatement, code enforcement, receiverships, municipal prosecution, liability defense, municipal services, court receiver, and hearing officer services.  Visit Serviam.Law for further information.