December 27, 2023 – At their regular meeting on December 18, 2023, the City of Shawnee Commissioners adopted a ‘No Sit, No Lie’ ordinance that will go into effect on January 17, 2024. Modeled after a four-year-old ordinance found after a nationwide search, the City of Shawnee ordinance was drafted with the purpose of promoting family-friendly public areas, supporting tourism and businesses, accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and maintaining an inviting environment.

The ordinance will apply to all individuals within the City of Shawnee downtown area, which is bounded by Highland Street, 7^th Street, Harrison Street, and Kickapoo Street. The ordinance will prohibit sleeping outdoors as well as sitting, lying down, or placing items in the right-of-way between the roadway and the adjacent structure or property line. However, the ordinance will not apply to individuals experiencing a medical emergency. It will also exclude any individuals who are participating in or watching public events, using provided private or public seating, or waiting in line for goods and services.

Per Chapter 20, Section 20-41 of the Shawnee, Oklahoma Code of Ordinances, a fine plus cost for a violation of this ordinance can be assessed upon conviction by the court.

For more information, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions, the adopted Ordinance, or contact the City of Shawnee at (405) 878-1601or citymanager@shawneeok.org.