Definitions

Size Categories & Response Types

This page consolidates duplicative reference material: encampment size categories, enforcement response types, and plain-language terms used across the Allen Index.

Three size categories.

Priority Response
Large Encampment
10+
Persons in a definable location
Structures for sustained habitation
Full decommissioning protocol may be triggered
Coordinated Response
Small Encampment
3–9
Persons in a definable location
Evidence of sustained presence
CORE/outreach engagement
Monitoring
Sleeping Spot
1–3
People bedding down
No sustained presence
Documentation and follow-up

Three response types.

The Allen Index score helps determine which response type is appropriate. Each type carries a different level of urgency, notice period, and resource deployment.

Immediate
Sweep
Immediate Safety Concern

Reserved for encampments that pose an immediate threat to human life or public safety.

Notice PeriodNone — Immediate
Surge EventNot Required
📋
Expedited
Decommission
Expedited Encampment Response

Applied when significant safety or health concerns require timely action but allow for a short notice window.

Notice Period72-Hour Notice
Surge EventNot Required
🏠
Planned
Clearance & Closure with Support
Planned Encampment Response

A comprehensive response with engagement, planning, Project Outreach Connect, closure, clearance, and follow-up.

Notice Period2-Week Notice
Surge EventRequired

Quick reference glossary.

Sweep

A common term for removing people, structures, or belongings from an encampment. It often implies a response focused primarily on removal.

Decommission

A planned process for winding down an encampment site through assessment, engagement, service connection, cleanup, and follow-up.

Clearance

Removal of structures, debris, garbage, and items identified as waste after outreach and planning steps occur.

Closure

The point when a site is no longer allowed to continue as an encampment and people are required to leave the location.