Public Urination

Public urination is primarily regulated by littering ordinances, with special regulations for parks and transit.

PUBLIC URINATION (GENERALLY) (called “Littering Prohibited”) – NYC Sanitation Code §16-118 (this is a violation):

Behavior that is not allowed:


6) causing / allowing filthy liquid or matter to fall on the streets

PUBLIC URINATION (GENERALLY) (called “Throwing or dropping offensive matter into streets… prohibited”) – NYC Health Code §153.09 (this is a misdemeanor):

Behavior that is not allowed:

Throwing or putting any offensive liquid or substance onto city streets or sewers

"Urination and Defecation" in Parks

Part of "Prohibited Uses" of parks -- Parks Department Regulations §1-04 (this can be a violation or misdemeanor)



Behavior that is not allowed:



k) public urination or defecation in parks

Public Urination in Transit Facilities

Part of “Disorderly Conduct” in transit facilities - Transit Authority Rule 1050.7 (this is a violation):



Behavior that is not allowed:

a) creating “unsanitary conditions” in transit facilities (urinating in places other than toilets)