HomeMy WebLinkAboutShare the space updated 9-2018Sharing the Space Policy
Purpose
The City of Port Townsend is dedicated to providing equitable access to and fair use of its public facilities in a
comfortable and safe setting. The purpose of these rules is to promote an environment that encourages visitors
to be responsible for their personal safety, the safety of the children in their care, the security of their personal
belongings, to respect others, and protect public property while maintaining a welcoming and respectful
environment.
Applicability.
In addition to State and local laws, these rules of conduct apply to all City of Port Townsend facilities when
regularly open to the public* and includes, but is not limited to:
• The Carnegie Library
• Charles Pink House
• City Hall
• Cotton Building
• Mountain View Commons
• Pope-Marine Building
• Public Restrooms
Rules of Conduct
1. Cell phones. Cell phones are allowed, and we provide free public Wi-Fi for internet connection. However,
we ask that you place your ringer on low or vibrate and answer phone calls outside to prevent the
disturbance of others.
2. Children. We welcome visitors of all ages but children below the age of 8 and anyone with special needs
who requires a caregiver must be accompanied and supervised at all times by someone age 13 or older.
City staff is not responsible for the care and supervision of children.
3. Disruption. To help ensure our visitors have a valued experience we ask that all visitors respect each
other by avoiding disruptive behavior and conduct such as: creating loud noises, loud talking, screaming,
or banging on computer keyboards; lying down or appearing to be sleeping, having feet on furniture;
monopolizing resources or other behavior that may reasonably result in the disturbance of others. Visitors
will not interfere with the free passage of others in or onto City premises including, but not limited to,
placing objects such a bicycles, skateboards, or leashed animals in areas where they may impede
movement or blocking aisles, exits, or entrances.
4. Clothing. To help ensure general cleanliness of the facility and to respect the personal space and values of
other visitors, shirts and shoes are required. As well, personal hygiene and clothing conditions should be
maintained so as to not unreasonably interfere with other visitors’ ability to use the facility.
5. Harassment and abuse. Physical, sexual, verbal, or any other type of harassment or abuse of others is not
allowed.
6. Drugs and Alcohol. Illegal drug use, consumption, or possession, is not allowed. Possession or use of
alcohol is only permitted under specific City permits. Marijuana use in public is prohibited. Individuals
appearing intoxicated or under the influence will be asked to leave.
7. Smoking. Smoking, vaping or other tobacco use is not allowed inside City facilities. When smoking or
vaping outdoors, please move at least 25 feet from an entrance, open window, or ventilation and
properly dispose of ashes and other litter. (RCW 70.160.075).
8. Food and drink. We allow food and beverages indoors but reserve the right to limit or prohibit the
consumption of food and beverages within any City facility. All drinks ideally will have a lid and no food or
drinks are allowed near public library computers. Persons with food or drinks are expected to clean up
after themselves.
9. Pets. We welcome service animals (dogs and miniature horses) to accompany their owners during a visit.
However, pets, comfort animals, and other non-service animals may only visit with approval from City
staff. All animals must be on a leash unless it specifically prohibits the animal from carrying out his or her
service. No animal may me left unattended on City property for an extended amount of time.
10. Personal belongings. Backpacks, bags, packages, or other personal belongings are allowed in the facility,
but they must remain within the visitor’s personal space. They may not be so large or cumbersome that
they interfere with other patrons and may not be left unattended at any time.
* The Share the Space Policy does not apply to facility rentals. Please refer to the City’s Facility Rentals
Policy and Information for more information.
Visitors may be asked to leave the facility if these rules are not adhered to