Fresno is moving ahead with a new ordinance to support local businesses suffering from homeless vandalism and loitering.
The Fresno City Council approved an ordinance to penalize people for trespassing on private business property on Thursday.
The big picture: Fresno’s new ordinance bans people from remaining at a business once they are notified to leave.
- Violators will face a misdemeanor penalty with a fine of up to $1,000 and up to one year in jail.
- Business owners are encouraged to call the police if anyone refuses to leave their property to enforce the new ordinance.
Flashback: The council unanimously voted to introduce the ordinance at its last meeting two weeks ago, the first step toward putting it on the books officially.
- Councilmembers Gary Bredefeld, Mike Karbassi and Tyler Maxwell authored the ordinance.
What we’re watching: The ordinance will take effect in one month now that it is official.
Why it matters: Before this ordinance, Fresno did not have any laws on record that prohibit people from trespassing on private business property.
- City Attorney Andrew Janz said at a press conference last month that state laws regarding trespassing have been largely ineffective in protecting businesses. But the plain language in the new ordinance will make it easier to prosecute.
- The City Attorney’s Office will handle all cases for the new ordinance since violations would be against the municipal code.
