§ 20-1. Loitering.  


Latest version.
  • (a)

    In this section the following words and phrases shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them:

    Loitering means remaining idle in essentially one location and shall include the concept of spending time idly, to be dilatory, to linger, to stay, to saunter, to delay, to stand around, and also includes the colloquial expression "hanging around."

    Public place means any place to which the general public has access and a right of resort for business, for entertainment, or for other lawful purpose, but does not necessarily mean a place devoted solely to the uses of the public. The term "public place" shall also include the front or immediate area of any store, shop, restaurant, tavern, or other place of business and also public grounds, areas, or parks.

    (b)

    It shall be unlawful for any person within the township to loiter, loaf, wander, stand, or remain idle either alone or in consort with others in a public place in such manner so as to:

    (1)

    Obstruct any public street, public highway, public sidewalk, or any other public place or building by hindering or impeding or tending to hinder or impede the free and uninterrupted passage of vehicles, traffic or pedestrians after having been told to move on by a police officer.

    (2)

    Commit in or upon any public street, public highway, public sidewalk or any other public place or building any act or thing which is an obstruction or interference to the free and uninterrupted use of property or with any business lawfully conducted by anyone in or upon or facing or fronting on any such public street, public highway, public sidewalk, or any other public place or building, all of which prevents the free and uninterrupted ingress, egress and regress, therein, thereon and thereto after having been told to move on by a police officer.

    (3)

    Obstruct the entrance to any business establishment without so doing for some lawful purpose if contrary to the expressed wish of the owner, lessee, managing agent, or person in control or charge of the building or premises.

(Comp. Ords. 1985, § 20.101)