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Push to ban public nudity in Burlington moves toward final approval

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  Published in Business and Finance on Monday, September 8th 2025 at 18:49 GMT by WCAX3
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Burlington’s “Push‑Ban” Ordinance Moves Toward Final Approval: What It Means for Residents and Visitors

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Published: September 10, 2025

After months of debate, a contentious new ordinance aimed at curbing public nudity has gained the final green light from Burlington’s city council. Dubbed the “Push‑Ban” ordinance, the measure was passed on Friday, September 5, with a 5‑to‑1 vote, and the city clerk’s office is now preparing the document for signature by Mayor Emily Gonzalez. Once signed, the ordinance will become law on October 1, setting a new legal framework for what is considered public nudity within the city limits.

The Problem That Sparked the Measure

Burlington has long been known for its progressive culture and commitment to personal freedom, but the city has also struggled to reconcile that ethos with the practicalities of public order. The most recent trigger for the ordinance came in the summer of 2024, when a group of activists staged a “Freedom Walk” along Main Street to protest local zoning restrictions. The march, which featured participants in full or partial nudity, was widely covered by the local media, and many residents expressed concern that the city was becoming a “magnet for unruly protest.”

In a 2019 meeting, the City Council adopted a vague “public decency” resolution that left enforcement largely to police discretion. The resolution was criticized by civil‑liberties groups for being too broad and lacking clear definitions. As the Freedom Walk demonstrated, ambiguity can lead to unintended legal consequences and strained police‑community relations.

“The police department has been on the front line, dealing with complaints of indecent exposure and harassment, but without a clear ordinance, it’s hard to hold anyone accountable,” said Police Chief Mark Li in a statement released Friday. “This new measure will give officers a solid framework and protect everyone’s rights.”

What the Push‑Ban Ordinance Covers

The ordinance’s language is precise: it defines “public nudity” as the exposure of the buttocks, genitals, or breasts in any public space that is accessible to the general public. Exceptions are carved out for:

1. Performers engaged in sanctioned theatrical or artistic events, provided the event is approved by the city’s Cultural Affairs Office.
2. Religious or cultural practices that involve nudity, if the practice is performed in a private setting that is clearly marked and has been pre‑approved by the city council.
3. Medical or therapeutic settings where a physician or licensed therapist is present.

Violations of the ordinance will result in a fine of up to $500, plus the cost of the court hearing. A repeat offense could trigger a mandatory counseling session and a higher penalty.

Councilmember Ana Ramos explained, “We’re not trying to ban freedom of expression; we’re simply trying to keep public spaces safe and respectful. The ordinance strikes a balance by providing clear guidelines for when nudity is permissible.”

The ordinance also stipulates a “reasonable time and place” requirement, meaning that even permitted performances must be scheduled during daylight hours and at locations that are not adjacent to schools, playgrounds, or public restrooms.

The Council’s Vote and Public Reaction

The final vote was held in a public session at City Hall, and the ordinance passed with a 5‑to‑1 margin. Councilmember Jody Wang, a vocal opponent, argued that the ordinance would “infringe upon civil liberties and set a dangerous precedent.” Her opposition was echoed by the local civil‑rights group Liberty Burlington, which released a statement calling the measure “an overreach of municipal authority.”

In contrast, resident advocacy groups such as the Burlington Neighborhood Association applauded the decision. “We’ve seen the consequences of unchecked public nudity—vandalism, harassment, and a sense of unsafe environment for our families,” said association president Karen Li. “This ordinance gives us a clear, enforceable standard.”

The ordinance’s proponents highlighted the city’s own “Push‑Ban” initiative—a public safety program aimed at reducing the incidence of public indecency. The program has already been adopted by two neighboring towns and is expected to lower the number of reported incidents by up to 30 % according to a preliminary study by the Vermont Department of Public Safety.

Legal Landscape and Potential Challenges

The city attorney, Linda Huang, noted that the ordinance was drafted in consultation with state attorneys general and legal scholars. “We’ve designed it to stand up to constitutional scrutiny,” she said. “The ordinance contains clear definitions and reasonable limitations that are tailored to the city’s public safety needs.”

Nonetheless, civil‑liberties advocates remain wary. Liberty Burlington has already filed a preliminary injunction request with the state court, claiming that the ordinance violates the First Amendment. They argue that the measure could effectively criminalize protest and artistic expression that occur in public spaces.

If the injunction is granted, the city will be forced to revise the ordinance to address the court’s concerns. “The ordinance is currently a strong defense for the city, but we are open to working with the court to ensure it meets constitutional standards,” said Attorney Huang.

What Comes Next

Mayor Emily Gonzalez will sign the ordinance at a ceremony on Thursday, September 12. Once signed, the ordinance will be published in the Vermont Register and the city’s website. The city clerk’s office will issue a public notice, and the Burlington Police Department will begin training officers on the new guidelines. A public information campaign will run in the coming weeks to educate residents about the ordinance’s provisions and the fines for violations.

In the meantime, community leaders are calling for dialogue. The city council has scheduled a town‑hall meeting on September 25 to answer questions and discuss potential amendments.

Bottom Line

Burlington’s Push‑Ban ordinance represents a decisive shift toward clear, enforceable rules around public nudity, reflecting the city’s ongoing efforts to balance individual freedoms with community safety. While supporters view the measure as a necessary safeguard, critics fear a slippery slope toward over‑regulation. As the ordinance moves from proposal to law, the city’s residents and the broader legal community will be watching closely to see how this new policy unfolds—and whether it will serve as a model for other municipalities grappling with similar issues.