CLEVELAND, Ga. — The Cleveland City Council has approved updated ordinances dealing with unauthorized camping on public property within the city limits.
During Monday’s council meeting, City Manager Kevin Harris provided the council with an update from the draft discussed in June. Harris said they have added detailed definitions of camping and what is defined as public property. The new regulations pertain to all public spaces and private property. There are provisions where legal camping is permitted when the owner’s permission has been obtained.
Civil penalties for violators could be up to $500 per violation. Criminal penalties for repeat violators could lead to 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
With the council’s approval, the new provisions took effect immediately.
CBD moratorium
The Council also voted to impose a moratorium on new CBD stores in the city, as well as a moratorium on any new smoke/vape shops being authorized in the city. The moratoriums will be in effect for 12 months. Harris said they need that time to develop new regulations.
“Currently, our city’s zoning laws do not specifically address any of these types of businesses. The city wants to carefully study the impacts of CBD stores before allowing more to open. This pause gives the city time to update its current ordinances to ensure proper regulation and protect public health and public safety,” he said.
According to Harris, the moratoriums do not affect any business currently selling these products.
