HUNTINGTON BEACH – Complaints about some homeless people setting up makeshift shelters and leaving belongings on beaches, in parks and at City Hall have prompted a rule against camping in public areas.

City Council members voted Monday to approve an ordinance that while not explicitly drafted to target the homeless would likely have the biggest effect on transients.

The ordinance defines camping as leaving sleeping bags, mattresses, bedding, backpacks, luggage carts or cookware intended to be used for lodging in public areas.

The item was not discussed at Monday's meeting, but Huntington Beach police Lt. Mitch O'Brien said before the meeting that an increase in calls about people making homes in areas including Central Park and the downtown parking structure prompted the ordinance.

Read more at OC Register.