The Redwood City Council last night outlawed homeless encampments.
A person living in an encampment can now be charged with a misdemeanor if they've been given two warnings, decline shelter and that shelter is available.
Also under the ban, most encampments can be removed after two notices within three days. In cases where an encampment is within sensitive areas – like schools – the time is reduced to two days.
According to the Redwood City assistant city manager, there are nearly 30 encampments spread across the city. Several fires have been reported at the informal settlements.
The Redwood City Pulse reported several residents at the council meeting said they opposed the ban because it criminalized being homeless.
