Panhandling Regulations Last updated or reviewed on February 7, 2024 Creating a safe environment for caring Panhandling or solicitation in Asheville is legal, but it is regulated. Individuals have a right to solicit or panhandle on public property. However, unregulated activities can impact community safety, traffic flow, sidewalk access, ingress and egress of buildings, and/or disturbance of residents and businesses. The City of Asheville and City Council continually strive to maintain a balance between public safety and facilitating community members’ and visitors’ desire to give. Striking this balance creates a safe public environment while continuing to recognize and respect a culture of giving in our shared community. Clear laws provide a balance so both the giver and recipient interact in a safe environment. The City of Asheville has a duty to protect the rights and safety of both parties. The information below is designed to clearly define the regulations in place to support safe giving. Laws and regulations Maps of high traffic zones Other ways to care safely Laws and regulations Definition of panhandling or solicitation: Use of the spoken, written, or printed word, or other acts as are conducted in the furtherance of the purpose of collecting contributions of any type for the person or group making the communication for others. In general, panhandling and solicitation are allowed on sidewalks. However it is prohibited to carry out solicitation or panhandling activities under the following circumstances: By forcing yourself on another or accosting them Within 20 feet of a financial institution or ATM Within a outdoor dining area, or to solicit from anyone seated or working in the outdoor dining area Within 8 feet of a transit stop or bus station, or on a public bus Soliciting someone who is standing in line to enter a business By touching someone without their consent By blocking someone’s path, or blocking the entrance or exit to a business or vehicle By using obscene or threatening language By using a threatening gesture or action After dark While under the influence of alcohol or drugs Additionally: Verbal solicitation and panhandling is prohibited anywhere within the high traffic zones of downtown and Biltmore Village as defined by the maps below. Panhandling and solicitation are prohibited on a median, in the street and/or on a roadside shoulder. Find the full ordinance text at these links. Sec. 11-5. Public solicitation and begging regulated. Sec. 11-14. Solicitation from streets and median strips. Maps of high traffic zones Other ways to care safely The City recognizes that some people feel more comfortable giving privately. There are many ways to support those in need in our community. Those who prefer their giving to be a private action can refer to community organizations designed to provide aid. Churches Charity organizations that take donations Non-profit organizations Service organizations PDF Copy of Panhandling Brochure
