Panhandling

What is Panhandling

Panhandling means asking people in public for money or things, like food. This can be done by talking, holding a sign, or using gestures. Panhandling may also be known as begging.

Panhandling in Wake County

In Wake County, you must have a permit to panhandle. Permits are issued by Wake County Planning and Development Services and are only valid in the unincorporated areas of Wake County (areas outside city or town limits).

Where and when you cannot panhandle

You can only panhandle between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

You cannot panhandle:

  • Within 100 feet of an ATM or any machine that gives out money.
  • Within 100 feet of a bank that is open.
  • On the road, the shoulder or the median of any street or highway.

You cannot panhandle in these ways:

  • In a way that blocks cars or people walking.
  • By being aggressive, threatening, or intimidating.
  • By approaching people in groups of three or more.
  • By lying or pretending to be blind, deaf, or disabled, including wearing something that makes people think you have a disability you do not have.

Using your permit and what happens if you don’t

If you have a permit to panhandle, you must carry your permit and a photo ID every time you are panhandling. You must show your permit if a police officer or the person you ask for money wants to see it. Do not change or fake your permit, and no one else is allowed to use it but you. If you don’t follow these rules, you could get up to 30 days in jail, pay a $50 fine, or both.

City and town rules

Some cities and towns have their own rules about panhandling and similar activities. If you are asking for money or selling items in those areas, you must follow the city or town’s rules and get any permits they require. For questions or help, contact the numbers listed below.

Application Process

1

Apply in Person

Apply in person at Wake County Planning and Development Services

  • Waverly F. Akins Wake County Office Building, 7th floor
    336 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC
    Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. (closed holidays)
    Phone: 919-856-7400
2

Provide Proof of Identification

Complete the application provided by the Department and sign it. Applicants must have proof of identification. It should include:

  • Name and address: Your permanent address. If you don’t have one, provide a temporary address in or near Wake County. Include a phone number and next of kin, if available.
  • Photo ID: Show an original driver’s license, passport or other legal photo ID (inmate discharge cards, inmate ID cards, temporary driver’s license). If that isn’t possible, provide other documents that prove your identity (birth certificate, hospital wristbands, hospital discharge IDs with a picture, etc.). A copy of the ID or document must be submitted with the application.
  • Activity description: A short explanation of what you plan to do, including any items or services you will sell or offer.
  • Personal details: Your age, height, weight and any other identifying information.
3

Receive Permit

Once all required information is provided, a Wake County employee will seal the application and issue the permit. The permit lasts for six months from the date it is given. You can renew the permit as many times as you want. If you do not renew, the permit will expire in six months.

Need help?

If you need food, shelter or other support, these agencies are here to help you. You are not alone – reach out to them for assistance.

If you experience homelessness and need shelter:

Oak City Cares
Adult individuals and families
1430 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh, NC 27603
Phone: 919-344-9599

Second Street Place Shelter
5010 Second St., Raleigh, NC 27609
Phone: 919-838-9800

Haven House Services
Youth and young adults ages 18–24
1008 Bullard Court, Raleigh, NC 27615
Phone: 919-833-3312

Women’s Center of Wake County
Single women
2200 New Bern Ave., Raleigh, NC 27610
Phone: 919-829-3711

Salvation Army
Families
1863 Capital Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27610
Phone: 919-834-6733

South Wilmington Street Center
Men
1420 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: 919-857-9428

Help for unsheltered

ACORNS
Phone: 919-996-3345

WakeMed H.E.A.R.T. (Outreach)
Unsheltered adults with serious mental illness
Phone: 919-436-0057

Raleigh Rescue Mission
Help with various services
314 E. Hargett St., Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: 919-828-9014

Help with transportation

GoTriangle Fixed Route Fare

Discount Fare Options
Phone: 919-485-7433

Wake County resources

Wake County Continuum of Care
Wake NC 507

Wake Network of Care