Homeless people may soon be able to stop and rest legally in Fort Collins as city officials look at differentiating between sleeping in public and illegal camping.
The Fort Collins Coloradoan reports the policy would not change the city's ban on setting up campsites or tents in natural areas. Deputy City Manager Jeff Mihelich says council members will instead look at allowing people to sleep in public places including in cars on private property, under a tree or in a public park.
Property owners would need to voluntarily open up their lots to people, and provide trash cans as well as restrooms. Mihelich said the area would be solely for sleeping.
The proposed shift comes as Durango-area officials crack down on illegal camping, a problem highlighted by recent bear attacks.
