The McKinney City Council has approved two new ordinances aimed at curbing homelessness by restricting where people can sit, lie, or camp in public spaces.
The rules, passed Tuesday night, ban sitting or lying on sidewalks in the downtown area and prohibit camping in city parks and other public areas.
Both ordinances took effect immediately and include a one-year sunset clause, meaning they will expire unless renewed by the council. City officials said the measures are intended to address growing safety and sanitation concerns in public spaces while balancing access for businesses and residents.
Critics argued the ordinances could criminalize homelessness rather than address its root causes, while supporters said they are necessary to maintain public order.
McKinney joins several other North Texas cities that have enacted similar restrictions following state legislation allowing local governments to regulate public camping and sleeping.
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