Thomasville council approves amendment tightening camping rules on private property

The Thomasville City Council voted to amend the city’s camping ordinance to cover private property without an owner’s permission and to tighten definitions and enforcement. Councilmember Merrill moved to approve the amendment, which passed 5–2; Councilmembers Johnson and Peyton Williams voted no.

The change adds language to section 54-16 to say that streets and public areas should remain accessible and that camping — defined to include tents, tarps and other temporary structures — can constitute a public nuisance. The ordinance now defines “minimal duration” as 48 hours or less and makes it unlawful to camp without the owner’s permission for more than 48 hours in a 30-day period. The city may summarily remove temporary shelters, bedding or personal belongings under the revised code.

Chief Dustin Carter and staff presented the proposal to council, saying it aims to protect public health, safety and private property rights while allowing specified temporary camping associated with permitted events. Carter described the proposed definition change and the 48-hour threshold during the presentation.

Supporters on the council framed the amendment as a way to preserve neighborhoods and address safety and sanitation concerns; opponents raised concerns about enforcement and impacts on homeless residents. The council did not direct staff to provide an alternative shelter plan at this meeting.

The ordinance as adopted includes the revised definitions and enforcement language; staff will publish the updated code language and follow the city’s standard implementation process.