Picture the Homeless

New York has several anti-loitering laws, although their constitutionality has been challenged. Generally, loitering in itself is not illegal, though you cannot block residential or commercial entrances or exits. However, loitering for the purpose of doing something else illegal is illegal:

LOITERING (GENERALLY) – NY Penal Code §240.35 (this is a violation):

Behavior that is not allowed:

1) loitering for the purpose of gambling

2) loitering for the purpose of engaging in deviate sex

3) loitering while masked or disguised (except for police-authorized masquerade parties)

4) loitering on school grounds or at a children’s camp

5) loitering in a transit facility for the purpose of making money (like playing music)

6) loitering or sleeping in a transit facility and being unable to satisfactorily explain presence