Proposed Houston ordinance would make it illegal to picket within 200 feet of someone’s home

HOUSTON – A proposed ordinance being put before the Houston City Council Tuesday would make it illegal to picket within 200 feet of someone’s home.

The proposal, which is agenda item #11 on Tuesday’s city council meeting agenda, relates to targeted residential picketing.

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“In order to protect residential privacy and the sense of tranquility and security in the home as well as prevent the targeting of specific residences by picketers and demonstrators, Council is asked to approve a new section in Chapter 28 of the code of ordinances and other related changes,” the agenda item states.

The ordinance, if passed, would add a new section to chapter 28 of the city code of ordinances. The section includes:

• Definitions of Focused Picketing and Targeted Dwelling
• Prohibits focused picketing within 200 feet or a targeted dwelling
• Lists requirements prior to any citation or arrest

The item would also amend Section 30-9 (c) to prohibit the issuance of a permit for any demonstration in front of a residential property.

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You can find the ordinance on the agenda here.