Seaside tightens rules on aggressive solicitation, overnight vehicle occupancy and storage after heated public debate

Seaside City Council voted unanimously Aug. 18 to adopt an ordinance amending multiple chapters of the city code to prohibit “aggressive solicitation” in certain public spaces, shorten the permitted overnight occupancy hours for vehicles on public property, and clarify rules for storage and removal of personal property left on city property. The council said the changes aim to protect pedestrian and traffic safety while preserving constitutionally protected speech. Why it matters: The measure directly affects people who live in vehicles or store belongings on public land and sets clearer timelines and procedures for removal of property, notice periods and enforcement. Supporters said it will improve safety for drivers and pedestrians; opponents said it criminalizes homelessness and risks costly litigation. The ordinance adds a new chapter (9.05) that defines and bans unsafe or “aggressive” solicitation in locations the city described as medians,…