With poll showing growing public concern over homeless camps, tighter limits are needed to protect public safety, health, and quality of life

VANCOUVER – An attorney for Clark County Matters, a grassroots non-profit, has sent a letter to the Vancouver mayor and city councilors urging seven specific changes to city ordinances to limit the growing problem of homeless camps in the city.

“Along with more shelters and services, Vancouver needs an equal or greater commitment to end dangerous homeless camps in our city. These seven specific ordinance changes will incentivize the homeless to seek and accept assistance and will better protect residential and business neighborhoods. We urge the mayor and council to take action,” said Amy Harris, spokesperson for the group.

A copy of the full letter and recent polling is available here.

Recommended city ordinance changes include:

1. Requiring residents of safe stay communities to comply with local, state and federal laws and comply with lawful orders of law enforcement. 

2. Prohibiting camping within 1,000 feet of any existing street, sidewalk, or right-of-way in such a way that restricts access. 

3. Prohibit camping within 1,000 feet of a school church, senior care facility or community center. 

4. Restricting camping in privately owned parking lots and areas to those restricted from daytime camping except where express permission has been granted by the private owner.

5. Prohibit camping within 200 feet of the nearest edge of certain natural resources and repealing provisions applying to specific areas. 

6. Expanding the periods of time that daytime camping and outside habitation are restricted. 

7. Restricting camping in vehicles.

Information provided by Clark County Matters.