Homelessness is a crisis that tears at the heart of our communities, and Sacramento County is taking a bold—and controversial—step to address it. But here's where it gets controversial: the county has expanded its camping ban to include most private property, sparking a heated debate about whether this move truly helps or simply pushes the problem elsewhere. The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors approved this measure to tackle the growing issue of homeless encampments shifting from public to private lands. As community member Holly Tolbert emotionally shared during Tuesday’s meeting, “We’ve had people pass out from fentanyl on the front steps of our building, just a block away from our local elementary school.” Her words highlight the urgent need for action, but the question remains: is this the right approach?
Previously, the county could only intervene in encampments on public property, which often led to camps relocating to private areas. Starting next month, deputies will have the authority to act on private property encampments when owners are unreachable, issuing warnings and removing tents. Sacramento County Board Chair Rosario Rodriguez defended the decision, stating, “In the long run, this helps businesses focus on what they do best while allowing us to address homelessness-related issues more effectively.” But is this a band-aid solution, or a step toward meaningful change?
The new ordinance makes camping on private property illegal, with exceptions for individuals camping on their own land or with written permission from the owner. Campers must also have access to toilets, trash collection, and avoid fire hazards. Camping is limited to three consecutive days at a time, no more than three times a year. And this is the part most people miss: while the ban aims to regulate camping, it doesn’t provide a clear solution for where displaced individuals will go. Critics argue that without adequate alternatives, this measure merely shifts the problem rather than solving it.
Opposition has been vocal, with Mike Jaske of Sacramento Area Congregations Together (SAC ACT) questioning the ban’s effectiveness. “Will people be arrested, taken to jail, processed, and then released within 24 hours to find another illegal camping spot?” Jaske asked. He advocates for a more compassionate approach, calling for increased funding and services to address homelessness at its root. “With state and federal support, we can expand shelter space, increase housing, and create humane, supportive environments where people can recover, find employment, and regain self-sufficiency,” Jaske explained.
Rodriguez acknowledged that some county shelters are not operating at full capacity, suggesting untapped resources could be better utilized. “Our ultimate goal is to connect people with the services they need to get off the streets,” Rodriguez said. But without a comprehensive plan, critics fear this ban will only exacerbate the issue.
Here’s the thought-provoking question: Is criminalizing homelessness the answer, or does it simply punish those already struggling? Share your thoughts in the comments—do you agree with the county’s approach, or do you believe more funding and services are the key to solving this crisis? The debate is far from over, and your voice matters.
