This ordinance would expand Houston's existing Civility Ordinance — which restricts sitting, lying, or storing belongings on public sidewalks — to include a new designated area in and around the East End neighborhood, bounded by Chartres Street, Buffalo Bayou, 75th Street, and Capitol Street. The expansion would apply at all times, including overnight.

What it means for you

People who currently sit, lie down, or store belongings on sidewalks within this East End boundary would be subject to the same restrictions that already apply in other designated areas of the city; the ordinance primarily affects individuals experiencing street homelessness in that area.

Outcome

Adopted — vote recorded in official minutes. Motion 2025-0780, official minutes of Nov 5, 2025.