Camas Acts to Preserve Public Spaces, Passes Camping Ban

The City of Camas recently enacted an ordinance banning camping on public property, fully complying with the 2024 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in favor of Grants Pass, which allows such restrictions without breaching the 8th Amendment clause that it does not prohibit the enforcement of laws regulating camping on public property.

Prior to unanimously passing the ordinance banning camping on public property, Camas City Administrator Doug Quinn stated that the ordinance is “in alignment with our strategic plan, this addresses safe and accessible communities, stewardship of city assets and ensuring a vibrant and safe community.”  As reported by The Columbian, “Camas residents have expressed fear and avoided using city amenities, such as parks, when camps are present, according to a city staff report.”

The ban on camping on public property is a longtime recommendation of Future 42.

You can check out coverage for more information and how the media has covered the ban from the Columbian, KPTV, KATU, Clark County Today, and the Washington Policy Center.