As it stands now, it's not against the law to answer nature's call in public in the unincorporated areas of King County.
King County Council member Kathy Lambert wants to change that with a proposed ordinance.
Lambert says the proposed ban isn’t about prohibiting indecent behavior; it’s about addressing a public nuisance that’s also a public health issue. And it’s a problem she’s been hearing about for the past four years.
"We have places along the riverfront in Fall City where we have community members who go out every weekend, cleaning up after people that should be taking care of it themselves," she said.
Under the proposed bill, public urination or defecation in unincorporated areas would be a civil infraction. The fine would be $125 and would apply to anyone over the age of 12.
After input from other council members and the public, Lambert amended her proposal to exempt golf courses, some waterways, and one's own private property.
The council is expected to vote on the ordinance on Monday.
