Urinating or Defecating in Public: What Does Nevada Law Say?

It is against the law to urinate or defecate in public in Nevada. This includes sidewalks, roads, and in parks. You can be fined up to $2,000 and/or imprisoned in a county jail for up to 364 days if you are caught doing this.

In Nevada, even homeless people are expected to use public restrooms when they need to relieve themselves. If you have to urinate or defecate in public, the best thing to do is to find a restroom.

Note that some cities in Nevada also have their own laws against this, which usually means stricter and harsher punishments. For example, if charged and found guilty in Henderson, you will pay an extra cleaning fee.

If you are accused of urinating or defecating in public, you should contact a Nevada criminal defense attorney like The Defenders as soon as possible to discuss your case and help you decide what to do next.

What Is the Law in Nevada About Peeing or Defecating in Public Places

Peeing in public is typically a misdemeanor. You will likely get a ticket and have to pay a fine if you are caught. The same goes for defecating and failing to dispose of excrement. In addition to fines, the latter often carry mandatory community service.

In some cases, public urination or defecation can be considered a felony. For example, if you relieve yourself on someone else’s property without permission, you could be charged with trespassing.

It’s also possible that you may be charged with indecent exposure. This is a more serious offense that is typically charged as a felony.

If you are convicted of indecent exposure, you will have to register as a sex offender. This can have a major impact on your life, making it difficult to find a job or housing.

What Are the Penalties for Peeing or Defecating in Public in Nevada?

The penalties for urinating or defecating in public depend on the offense you are charged with. As mentioned above, this also depends on the location. For example, in Las Vegas, the punishment is up to $1,000 in fines and/or up to six (6) months in jail.

If, however, you were charged with indecent exposure, the penalties are much more severe.

For a first-time offender, you’ll be charged with gross misdemeanor, which carries:

• up to 364 days in jail and/or up to $2,000 in fines, and
• possible sex offender registration

If you are a second-time (or subsequent) offender, you will be charged with a category D felony, which has a punishment of:

• 1 – 4 years in prison, and
• a possible fine of up to $5,000

How to Fight a Public Urination or Defecation Charge in Nevada

There are a few legal defenses that can be used if you’re accused of urinating in public. Each case will differ, so it’s important to consult with an attorney to determine which defense may be most applicable in your situation.

Medical Condition

If you had a medical condition that caused you to urinate or defecate in public, this could be used as a defense. For example, if you have a bladder infection or diarrhea, you may not be able to make it to a restroom in time.

Falsely Accused

It’s possible that you were falsely accused of urinating or defecating in public. Maybe someone saw you walking near a puddle of urine and assumed you were the one who made it. Or, perhaps you were in a public restroom when someone else relieved themselves outside of the toilet.

No Reasonable Alternative

If there was no reasonable alternative and you absolutely had to relieve yourself, this could be used as a defense. For example, if you were on a long hike and there were no restrooms for miles, you may have had no choice but to go in the woods.

Frequently Asked Questions