Who is Responsible for Cleaning Up a Homeless Encampment?

Homeless encampments have become increasingly common in many urban and suburban areas throughout Southern California. Once people move out, an array of trash, feces, and drug paraphernalia remain that need to be safely removed and the property cleaned. Who is responsible for ensuring safety is restored depends on whether the homeless camp is on private or public property.

Private Property

If the homeless camp is located on private property, the person who owns that property is responsible for any necessary cleanup, making sure all hazards are removed and any biohazards are legally disposed of. For someone not familiar with all the applicable rules and regulations, this can be a daunting task, as these camps often accumulate a significant amount of dangerous material such as used needles and human waste.

For property owners facing this situation, hiring our professional biohazard cleaners at Bio SoCal is often the best solution. With the needed expertise, equipment, and experience necessary to handle homeless encampment cleanup, we have all the necessary permits and licenses to safely dispose of and transport dangerous substances. In addition to removing all hazards, we ensure the area is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. This not only restores the property to a safe and usable state but also helps protect public health and the environment.

Public Property

When a homeless camp is situated on public property, the responsibility for cleanup is the responsibility of the city, county, or state. This includes parks, sidewalks, underpasses, and other public spaces. Local governments have the duty to maintain these areas and ensure they are safe and accessible for all members of the public. When cleanup exceeds the California government’s ability or personnel resources, they often call us at Bio SoCal as they know we will clean and disinfect the property to the highest standards and ensure safety for the community.

The Importance of Professional Cleanup

Whether a homeless encampment is on private or public property, trash and remaining biohazards need to be safely removed and the property cleaned to protect the health and safety of the public. With numerous health hazards and the potential attraction of pests, proper cleanup needs to be undertaken as soon as possible.
Equipped with the necessary tools and protective gear to handle these dangerous materials safely, our team at Bio SoCal are always here to ensure that every homeless camp cleanup is performed to the highest level of safety and compliance.

Contact us today with any questions or for a free consultation and let us help you reclaim your space responsibly.