What the new Public Spaces & Camping Ordinance does

Ordinance No. 2026-3111

This ordinance updates McCook’s rules for camping, sleeping, and use of public areas across the city. It applies to everyone, not just people without housing.

1. Where camping is allowed

• Overnight camping is not allowed in most public places.

• The only public location where overnight camping may be allowed is Karrer Park, and only with a permit from the City.

• Camping is limited to a designated area and for a limited number of days.

2. Sleeping in vehicles

• Sleeping overnight in a motor vehicle, camper, or trailer parked in a public place is not allowed unless permitted by the City.

3. Sidewalks and public access

• Sidewalks, entrances, and public pathways must remain open and passable.

• Blocking sidewalks or creating hazards in public spaces is prohibited.

4. Personal property in public spaces

• Property may not be stored in public areas in a way that creates safety, health, or sanitation concerns.

• The City is authorized to remove abandoned, hazardous, or obstructive property.

5. Use of public restrooms

• Public restrooms may only be used for their intended purpose.

• They may not be used for bathing, laundering, cooking, or storage.

6. Enforcement focus

• City officials emphasized the ordinance regulates behavior, not status.

• It applies equally to anyone using public spaces — not only to people experiencing homelessness.

7. Why it was passed

• The ordinance follows the temporary closure of Karrer Park in July 2025 due to safety and misuse concerns.

• Public records show the city cited safety concerns and "permanent residency" as the reason for the closure. This ordinance is the legislative "solution" to those problems.

https://www.cityofmccook.com/231/Ordinances