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Duval council leans toward 72-hour outreach window and $250 penalty in parks/camping code
Summary
Councilors discussed proposed changes to the parks/city-property code including a 72-hour notice period to allow outreach providers to engage unhoused persons and a $250 civil fine (single fine per event) for violations; staff will return with a final draft for adoption.
Councilors debated proposed edits to Duval's municipal code on camping and use of city property at the July 21 meeting and signaled support for a more outreach-focused approach.
Staff presented a draft requiring notice before enforcement and a civil penalty schedule. Outreach providers (Reclaim, Porchlight) and several councilors recommended a 72-hour minimum notice so outreach teams have time to attempt engagement and housing/service connections; multiple councilors said that timeline is a realistic minimum for effective outreach. "72 hours is a minimum for them to get to work when they're dedicated to this," a councilor said, relaying provider feedback.
Councilors also addressed enforcement mechanics and fine levels. Staff clarified the ordinance would not produce double fines for the same event (camping and belongings); instead it would impose a single fine where both violations occur. After discussion on deterrence and collection practicality, councilors expressed support for a $250 civil penalty as a compromise between deterrence and avoidable hardship.
Staff noted the code retains discretion for officers to act sooner when criminal activity or public-safety risks are present and that posted park rules and existing curfews also constrain permitted uses.
What happens next: staff will incorporate the 72-hour notice provision and the single $250 fine into a final draft, and return to council for a final vote.
