The new camping ban in Clark County, which began on a recent Saturday, prohibits camping in specific public areas like trails, parks, underpasses, washes, and tunnels. This ordinance, approved by the County Commission in November, targets individuals who loiter or sleep in these public spaces.
The ordinance includes measures for repeat offenders who decline social services, allowing for jail sentences of up to 10 days. Initially, individuals caught violating the ban will be informed about the ordinance and directed to available services and shelter. They will have a chance to relocate, but returning to the same location can lead to citations or arrest.
The law also permits officials to impound personal belongings from those penalized, with the option for these individuals to retrieve their property later. Enforcement of this ordinance will not occur if no public shelter space is available, unlike the policy in the city of Las Vegas.
Following the county’s decision, the City Council voted to strengthen its own ordinance, removing a clause that made it unenforceable if no shelter beds were open. This move was supported by a U.S. Supreme Court ruling affirming the constitutionality of camping bans. Henderson has also implemented a similar ban.
County officials have indicated plans to expand housing and services to address the homelessness crisis. Governor Joe Lombardo announced a $200 million public-private partnership aimed at tackling the issue in Southern Nevada. This initiative includes a $100 million commitment from the 2023 Nevada Legislature to support the development of a 26-acre transitional housing complex in Las Vegas, with matching funds pledged by the resort industry.
