MEAD, Wash. — Spokane County commissioners passed an ordinance Tuesday night aimed at reducing unwanted camping on private properties by giving law enforcement new tools to address what officials say has been a growing problem.
The ordinance categorizes unauthorized camping on private property as a nuisance, establishing enforcement standards where none existed before.
“We’ve dealt with nuisance activities and nefarious activities on properties that we didn’t have the tools necessary to deal with,” said Commissioner Al French.
Under the new rules, law enforcement can issue violations, impose fines, or seek court-ordered cleanups when camping affects the health or safety of nearby residents.
The county built in exceptions for authorized camping. Property owners can still permit camping on their land, but they must be physically present during the activity.
“In that case, the property owner or tenant must be physically present and camping would only occur with permission of that owner or tenant, and then there’s some restrictions on vehicles,” said Nathan Gwinn, deputy prosecuting attorney for Spokane County.
The ordinance comes as residents in areas like Mead have expressed frustration with ongoing camping situations. Art Taylor, who lives next to what he describes as a nuisance property, said he and his neighbors have contacted law enforcement multiple times but are still waiting for action.
“I would want to see more action from the county. I’m pressed to understand why there hasn’t been anything done to them over there,” Taylor said.
The new enforcement tools will allow county officials to respond more effectively to complaints about camping on private property, particularly when the activity creates health hazards or safety concerns for surrounding communities.
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