OCEAN CITY, Md. - As Ocean City braces for the busy summer season, officials are weighing a new ordinance aimed at keeping public spaces clear of unattended personal belongings and people sleeping in open areas.
The proposed measure would allow the town to impound any personal property left in public spaces for more than 24 hours. It would also make sleeping in public areas a misdemeanor offense—though individuals would first receive a warning before any charges are issued.
Officials say the ordinance is in response to public health and safety concerns, blocked access for emergency responders, and impacts on local businesses and overall quality of life.
While some vacationers support the idea, seeing it as a step toward preserving the town’s cleanliness and appeal, others have raised concerns about the proposal's broader implications—particularly its effect on the homeless population.
Ocean City considers ordinance to restrict sleeping, property storage in public spaces.
“I think it’s a good idea,” said one visitor. “If you want to maintain the cleanliness of the city, this could help.”
But James Conforti, who visits Ocean City every year, worries the ordinance may go too far. “They have about three or four benches way up on 27th or 28th Street, and they don’t seem to bother anybody,” Conforti said, referring to homeless individuals in the area.
According to the Ocean City Police Department, there has not been a noticeable spike in homelessness in the area. However, they noted that some individuals experiencing homelessness have declined available assistance.
The Ocean City Council plans to move the proposal forward for further review.