Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 1365 into law, effective Oct. 1, enforcing a state-wide ban on homeless camping in public spaces such as streets, sidewalks, and parks. The legislation requires homeless individuals to reside in designated shelters offering mental health and substance abuse services, monitored by law enforcement. The Department of Children and Families will oversee the creation of temporary campsites for when shelters reach maximum capacity, ensuring proper sanitation and access to services.

“Florida will not allow homeless encampments to intrude on its citizens or undermine their quality of life like we see in states like New York and California,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “The legislation I signed today upholds our commitment to law and order while also ensuring homeless individuals have the resources they need to get back on their feet.”

Additionally, the Department of Children and Families is authorized to set up temporary campsites, providing clean restrooms, running water, and enforcement of no alcohol or illegal drug use.

Under HB 1365:

• Homeless individuals are prohibited from camping on city streets, sidewalks, and parks—and instead placed in temporary shelters monitored by law enforcement agencies.
• The state of Florida has the enforcement tools needed to ensure local governments comply.
• Homeless shelters will require occupants to not use drugs.
• These shelters will also include substance abuse and mental health treatments.

HB 1365 also provides alternatives for when homeless shelters have reached max capacity.

• It directs the Department of Children and Families to authorize temporary campsites that do the following:
  • Maintain sanitation, including access to clean and operable restrooms and running water.
  • Provide access to substance abuse and mental health treatment resources through coordination with the regional managing entity.
  • Prohibit illegal substance use and alcohol use on the property and enforce this prohibition.

The new law also allows residents, local businesses, and the state attorney general to file lawsuits to prevent cities or counties from allowing public camping starting January 2025.