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

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

The proposal, which is listed as Item 11 on Tuesday’s City Council meeting agenda, concerns targeted residential picketing.

“In order to protect residential privacy and the sense of tranquility and security in the home and to prevent the targeting of specific residences by picketers and protesters, Council is invited to approve a new section to Chapter 28 of the Code of Ordinances and other related amendments,” the agenda item states.

The ordinance, if passed, would add a new section to Chapter 28 of the city’s Code of Ordinances. The section includes:

• Definitions of Targeted Picketing and Targeted Home Detention

• Prohibits targeted picketing within 200 feet of a targeted dwelling

• Lists the requirements prior to any citation or arrest

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

You can find the order on the agenda here.