Sparks Bans Camping Along Truckee River

(AP) — A Nevada city has banned camping along the Truckee River.

KTVN-TV reports that Sparks City Council on Monday outlawed campsites within 350 feet of the river inside city limits.

City Manager Steve Driscoll says there are nearly 15 homeless encampment sites along the river. He says the new ordinance will ban camping immediately, but officials must first show any individuals living near the river proof that the law has changed and ask them to leave.

Driscoll says the city will also need to follow up by offering services that can help those people find a better place to stay.

Division Director of Washoe County Social Services Ken Retterath says a program called Washoe County Crossroads is one good place to start.