(A) Definition. For the purpose of this chapter, the following definition shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
PUBLIC PLACE. Any place to which the general public has access and a right of resort for business, entertainment, or other lawful purpose, but does not necessarily mean a place devoted solely to the uses of the public. It shall also include the front or immediate area of any store, shop, restaurant, or other place of business and also public grounds, areas or parks.
(B) General provisions.
(1) It shall be unlawful for any person to stand alone or congregate with other persons on any street or sidewalk or public place within the town limits with the intent to, or who shall in fact:
(a) 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
(b) Obstruct the entrance to any business establishment without so doing for some lawful purpose, if contrary to the expressed wish of the owner, lessee, managing agent or person in control or charge of the building or premises.
(2) It shall be unlawful for any person, singly or in groups, to erect on any property, public or private, any temporary shack, shanty, tent or structure for place of temporary habitation or abode, for the purpose of living thereon and in such a manner as to create a place of camping, or temporary abode; provided, however, that this section shall have no application to any individuals or group of individuals who are living in temporary quarters on the premises of another with that landowner’s permission or consent, or who is engaged in the lawful and proper activities of any Boy Scout or Girl Scout organization, or auxiliary, or any other civic enterprise or project.
(3) When any person causes or commits any of the conditions in 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 this section.
(C) Penalty. In accordance with G.S. § 14-4, any person who violates this section shall be guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor and shall be fined more than $50 but not more than $500.
(Ord. 2022-01, passed 1-11-2022)