יהושע, פרק כ׳, פסוק ד׳

When a person causes an accidental death and flees to save his life, his arrival at a city of refuge involves a vital process of acceptance by the local leadership. Standing at the city gate, the exiled individual presents his case to the elders, recounting the events that occurred and formally asking for shelter [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. During this plea, he must explain exactly how the tragic event was a complete mistake, carried out without any harmful intent [מצודת דוד].

After listening to his account, the elders gather him inside the city limits [ביאור שטיינזלץ, מצודת ציון]. This act of bringing him in and offering protection happens immediately, even though the leadership has not yet verified if his story is true or confirmed that the death was truly an accident [מצודת דוד]. Upon his entry, the residents are obligated to care for his basic needs and provide him with a place to live [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. According to the sages, this living space is provided entirely at no cost. The exiled individual is not required to lease a home or pay any rent for the entire duration of his time in the city of refuge [רד״ק].