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- Loitering is being in a public place with no reason to be there, especially in commercial areas, that can harm businesses and customer safety. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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- Loitering laws are enforced differently by jurisdiction depending on local priorities, historical context and concerns around racial profiling and police powers. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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- Proactive measures like good lighting, controlled access, video surveillance and a clean environment are key to preventing loitering and keeping commercial properties safe. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
What is Loitering in a Public Place? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"No](\"https:\/\/ecam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/loitering_subimage1-1024x573.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLoiter means to hang around with no purpose. This happens in public places without a reason. This seemingly harmless act can have big consequences, especially in commercial areas. In the state of New York for example, the legal definition of loitering<\/a> carries important implications for individuals utilizing public spaces. Specifically, loitering is defined as remaining in a public area with no valid, lawful purpose. This goes beyond simply passing through or briefly stopping \u2013 it means lingering in a location in a way that raises reasonable suspicion of potential illegal activity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Examples of loitering are hanging around closed businesses, staying at bus stops without intending to travel, or staying in parks after hours. In commercial properties, loitering is when someone hangs around a property without permission and doesn\u2019t intend to do business. This can be uncomfortable for customers and employees and affects the bottom line of the business. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now that you know what loitering means you can spot it and address it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Modern Loitering Statutes and Laws <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/ecam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/loitering_subimage2-1024x573.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nModern loitering statutes vary by jurisdiction and some areas have specific behaviors that are considered loitering. The interpretation and enforcement of these laws can differ by state and municipality depending on local concerns and priorities. In some areas loitering is considered a public safety issue and has stricter penalties and more enforcement, in others it\u2019s a minor offense. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The historical context of loitering laws is also worth noting. In 1972 the US Supreme Court struck down many vagrancy laws and laws were reevaluated. This has resulted to a patchwork of laws where some jurisdictions have strict loitering penalties and others have looser regulations. State specific time and place restrictions and association with other crimes can determine if loitering is a crime on various grounds, including the location such as school grounds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
But enforcement of these laws is not without its problems. Racial profiling and use of police force are limits on police powers to disperse loiterers. In areas where loitering is a minor offense, businesses often work with law enforcement to manage and report loitering incidents. Knowing these details is key for businesses and property owners to navigate the loitering laws. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Loitering on Commercial Properties <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/ecam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/loitering_subimage3-1024x573.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLoitering, especially when it involves unauthorized commercial activities, can have a detrimental impact on the safety and vibrancy of retail centers and other commercial properties. When left unchecked, persistent loitering can create an uncomfortable environment that discourages customers from visiting, ultimately affecting the performance and reputation of the businesses located there. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The presence of loiterers introduces a range of security threats, from theft and vandalism to more serious criminal activities. These issues not only harm the individual businesses but can also damage the overall perception and appeal of the commercial property. For example, visible signs of vandalism, like graffiti, can attract even more loiterers by signaling a lack of oversight for the area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This vicious cycle of neglect can lead to reduced foot traffic and lower sales for tenant businesses. Customers and potential tenants may be deterred from engaging with a commercial space that looks unsafe or uncared for and ultimately impact the long-term viability of the property. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Beyond the reputational and financial losses, property owners may also be liable if someone is injured on the premises due to the presence of loiterers. Proactive security measures are key<\/strong> to mitigate these risks and create a welcoming and secure space for everyone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to Prevent Loitering on Commercial Properties <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/ecam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/loitering_subimage4-1024x573.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLoitering on commercial properties requires a multi-faceted approach. A common example hotspot for issues are parking lots where groups may gather and be told not to loiter. CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design)<\/a> can discourage loitering by creating spaces with good lighting and clear lines of sight. Posting clear \u2018No Loitering\u2019 signs can inform people that loitering is prohibited, and action will be taken against offenders. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Music or bright lighting at entrances can also deter loitering. Strategies for loitering on commercial properties include environmental design, signage and ambiance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lighting <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Good, bright lighting throughout the property can help chase away loiterers, who are drawn to dark areas where they can hide <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Low pressure sodium (LPS) lighting can also work. LPS chases away loiterers by changing how people look under its light- deterring them from hanging around, especially loiterers who might be engaging in illegal sex work. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fencing and Controlled Access <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Using strong fencing not only stops unwanted entry but also lets you see who\u2019s coming and going on the property. Fencing creates a single point of entry and exit. Implementing natural access control through fences, shrubs or other physical barriers can limit areas where loitering can occur. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Strong fencing and controlled access points monitor and limit entry to commercial properties on site. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Live Video Surveillance with Remote Monitoring <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- Proactive measures like good lighting, controlled access, video surveillance and a clean environment are key to preventing loitering and keeping commercial properties safe. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Loitering laws are enforced differently by jurisdiction depending on local priorities, historical context and concerns around racial profiling and police powers. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Blurred](\"https:\/\/ecam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/loitering_subimage5-1024x573.webp\")
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