The City of Lathrop currently doesn’t have an ordinance that prohibits those from sleeping in their vehicles.

But that’s about to change.

At the May 12 monthly session, the Lathrop City Council approved the introduction and first reading ordinance to add a “Camping or Sleeping in Motor Vehicle Prohibited” to a part of the Public Peace & Welfare ordinance.

No further comments from residents or businesses were taken during the public hearing.

Lathrop, like many other cities across California, has observed instances of people using motor vehicles for temporary shelter on public streets, parking lots, and on private property without the consent of the owner.

The definitions – included are motor vehicle, public property, camping, and sleeping – are clearly defined in the ordinance, said Capt. Tracie Shea of the City Lathrop Police Department.

She indicated that overnight vehicle habitation has the potential to obstruct assess to homes and businesses while contributing to sanitation and public health concerns.

The ordinance, once enacted, could also help in maintaining clean, safe, and welcoming public areas, reduce the public nuisance and sanitation issues, and support local police stay with their efforts.

The overview of the ordinance would make it unlawful to use a vehicle for habitation on:

·         Any public property between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.

·         Any private residential property without owner consent.

·         Non-residential private property such as parking lots when businesses are closed and other places without written owner consent.

Shea said violation of the new ordinance would be a misdemeanor.

Lathrop police, in addition, intend to educate those in violation early on.

Next up for elected leaders will be a second reading and adoption during 7 p.m. meeting this Monday at City Hall Council Chambers, 390 Towne Centre Dr.