JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Camping on certain public property will soon be outlawed in Mississippi.

House Bill 1203 was co-authored by State Rep. Kevin Felsher (R-District 117). It defines public property as sidewalks, streets and alleys.

“There were a lot of complaints about someone setting up a tent, obstructing a sidewalk, or setting up a tent in a park for days at a time,” said Felsher.

Stewpot Community Services Executive Director Jill Buckley said she’s unsure what will happen when the bill becomes law.

“What I hope happens is that we will all discover as a result of this, the enforcement of this bill, where the gaps are, and then come together as a community to try to figure out how to fill those gaps,” she said.

Those who violate the law will face a fine up to $50 or jail time. The law will go into effect on July 1.