§ 22-122. Loitering generally.

(a)

The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this section, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this subsection, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

Loitering means remaining idle in essentially one location and includes the concept of spending time idly; to be dilatory; to linger; to stay; to saunter; to delay; to stand around; and shall also include the colloquial expression "hanging around."

Public place means any place to which the general public has access and a right to resort for business, entertainment or other lawful purpose. The term "Public place" does not necessarily mean a place devoted solely to the uses of the public. The term "public place" includes the front or immediate area of any store, shop, restaurant, tavern or other place of business and also public grounds, areas or parks.

(b)

It is unlawful for any person to loiter, loaf, wander, stand or remain idle either along and/or in consort with others in a public place in such manner so as to:

(1)

Obstruct any public street, public highway, public sidewalk or any other public place or building by hindering or impeding or tending to hinder or impede the free and uninterrupted passage of vehicles, traffic or pedestrians; or

(2)

Commit in or upon any public street, public highway, public sidewalk or any other public place or building, any act or thing which is an obstruction or interference to the free and uninterrupted use of property or with any business lawfully conducted by anyone in or upon or facing or fronting on any such public street, public highway, public sidewalk or any other public place or building, all of which prevents the free and uninterrupted ingress, egress, and regress therein, thereon and thereto.

(c)

When any person causes or commits any of the conditions enumerated in subsection (b) of this section, a police officer or any law enforcement officer shall order that person to stop causing or committing such conditions and to move on or disperse. Any person who fails or refuses to obey such orders shall be guilty of a violation of the provisions of this section.

(d)

Loitering is a class C violation.

(Code 1964, § 23-46.2; Code 1988, § 22-73; Ord. No. 64501, §§ 1—3, 7-7-1983; Ord. No. 65498, § 35, 1-4-1990)

Cross reference

Definitions generally, § 1-2.