Deer Park, Washington, United States

Deer Park

Gazette

Local Writers, Local Photographers, Locally Owned

Deer Park’s Ordinance: Homelessness & Public Spaces

Deer Park City Council has enacted a law addressing homelessness and public space usage. Influenced by legal considerations at the federal level, the ordinance introduces clear definitions, identifies restricted areas, and establishes procedures for homeless camp removal.

The city council approved an ordinance that enforces restrictions on locations where homeless activities are prohibited, emphasizing the city’s intent to regulate specific spaces. However, as the ordinance stands, homeless individuals may find it challenging to navigate the local laws, unsure of where they can stay without risking penalties. This uncertainty brings a need for transparent and equitable policies that respect the rights and dignity of all citizens, including those facing homelessness.

The ordinance is a direct response to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals decision in Martin v. City of Boise. The court’s ruling deemed it unconstitutional for cities to enforce ordinances that criminalize camping on all public property at all times.

The City Council chose to bypass the traditional three-read process and in meeting discussion to expedite the ordinance’s implementation. The three-read process typically allows for more extensive community discussion, feedback, and time for contemplation and research before enacting new laws.

Of particular note are the ordinance’s provisions for removing unauthorized encampments and personal property. Advanced notices are mandated, affording individuals only a 48-hour window to address concerns or objections. Law enforcement or designated city personnel may then proceed with the removal, ensuring proper storage and notification.

Penalties for violations are clearly outlined, constituting misdemeanors with potential fines of up to $1,000 or confinement not exceeding 90 days. However, enforcement is uniquely tethered to the availability of overnight shelter spaces. If such shelters are not accessible, the criminal provisions are temporarily suspended.

The legislation categorically identifies prohibited areas for camping and storing personal property, ranging from rights-of-way and parks to parking lots and stormwater drainage facilities. These restricted areas include the real estate property containing City Hall, the Deer Park Maintenance Shop, the City Wastewater Treatment Lagoons, the City Airport, Perrins Field, Swinyard Park, the City Baseball Fields, Mix Park, Country Club Park, Arcadia Park, Erickson Arboretum, Deer Park Golf Course, Shamrock Glen Park, and Deer Park Meadows Park. This revised ordinance, officially known as Ordinance No. 2023-1020, was added to Chapter 9.16 of the Deer Park Municipal Code.

The ordinance is set to take effect five days after its official publication. The ordinance’s impact on the community, particularly regarding legal restrictions and constitutional rights, is a complex challenge.

To take a look at the ordinance as it was presented in the November 15th Agenda, please go to this link: Ordinance No. 2023-1020

Sources:

  • “11/15/23 Council Agenda.” Deer Park City Hall, Washington, 15 November 2023, DPGazette.com/3p92y. Accessed 5 December 2023.
Featured Sponsor
Thank You For Your Support!

Related Articles

Typewriter with paper reading "Letters to the Editor"

Establishing A City Police Department In Deer Park

Every few years the subject of establishing a city police department in Deer Park
makes the rounds on social media, local papers, and even the floor of the City Council.
Since the late 70’s when the city disbanded it’s own department and contracted with
the county, well meaning people have thought that it “seems” like we could fund our
own department for what we are paying the county.

Read More »
Typewriter with paper reading "Letters to the Editor"

Letter of support for Roger Krieger, Fire Commissioner, Spokane County Fire District 4.

As past Fire Chiefs of Spokane County Fire District 4 spanning the past 30 plus years, we strongly support the reelection of Roger Krieger for Fire District Four (4) Fire Commissioner.

Having worked with and for Commissioner Krieger we have personally witnessed and have firsthand knowledge of Commissioner Krieger’s professional behavior, leadership proficiency and dedication to his community.

Read More »

Deer Park Man Missing – Officials Seeking Information

Spokane County Sheriff’s Deputies are seeking public assistance to locate 72-year-old Harry A. Ballman, who was reported missing from his Deer Park home on July 7, 2025. Ballman, who suffers from dementia and other health concerns, was last seen on July 6 and his family is gravely concerned for his welfare amidst rising temperatures. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Crime Check immediately.

Read More »

Abigail Joy Hill

Abigail Joy Hill, born July 31st, 2003, was tragically killed in a head on collision on Hwy 395 on Father’s Day June 15th, 2025. She is survived by her father (Dan Hill), mother (Theresa Hill), and 5 siblings (Teresa Polensky, Brett Hill, Elizabeth Moshe, Carissa Curtis, and Jason Hill), as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. She will be severely missed by all!

Read More »

Long-time Deer Park resident, 1950 – 2006

The two most important things to Jannis were her relationship to Jesus Christ as her personal Savior and her family.  Jannis was born in Oakesdale, Washington on April 14, 1928, and passed away peacefully in Spokane on May 26, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert A and Edna (Hall) Crow, her husband M Dean Snook, and her two siblings Robert (Mac) Crow and Jerrene Holling.  Jannis learned hard work and gratitude for family values as she helped cook and clean for the large farm crews connected to dry land wheat farming of the 1930s-1940s.  She attended WSU (known as WSC at the time) and completed her BS in Home Economics plus her BA in Education in 1950-51.

Read More »

Young Voices Shine Home Link Writing Contest

Home Link recently held their annual short story writing competition. More than twenty 3rd-12th grade kids participated this year. In a competition that encourages six-trait story telling, but welcomes writers of all experience levels to tell a tale.

Read More »

Share this!

Featured Sponsor
Thank You For Your Support!

Share this!

Featured Sponsor
Thank You For Your Support!

Read more news.

A Chicken & Egg Problem

Due to a nationwide egg shortage, Brooke Rollins, the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture appointed by President Trump, suggested on Fox News that one solution could be for some families to raise backyard chickens. This marks the second major egg shortage in the past five years. The first, during the COVID-19 pandemic, was driven by hoarding and delivery disruptions, while the current shortage is primarily due to Bird Flu and industrial farming practice

Read More »
Ellen Standen Profile Photo

An Interview With Council Member Ellen Standen

Ellen Standen, a Deer Park resident since 1974, shares her journey from Northern California to her current role on the Deer Park City Council. With a long and varied history of service to the community, she reflects on the town’s growth and her aspirations for its future.

Read More »

Read & Support The

Local news to keep you informed and entertained. The Deer Park Gazette is locally owned and operated. When you support the Deer Park Gazette, you support local writers and photographers.