Lawsuit challenging Boulder’s enforcement of camping ban moving forward

BOULDER, Colo. (KDVR) — A lawsuit that challenges the enforcement of the City of Boulder’s camping ban against people experiencing homelessness is moving forward.  

The city ordinance makes it illegal to sleep outside in any public space made into a shelter using any cover or protection other than clothing. 

ACLU filed a lawsuit in 2022 alleging Boulder violated the state constitution when it enforces its camping ban against people experiencing homelessness who cannot access indoor shelter with no other alternative.  

The lawsuit has been stalled since Boulder filed a motion to dismiss, but a recent ruling by Boulder District Court Judge Robert Gunning denied the city’s motion, allowing the lawsuit to continue.