Do Trespassers Know They’re Not Welcomed On Your Property?

No Trespassing Signs

Do Trespassers Know They’re Not Welcomed On Your Property?

As a property owner, you need to ensure the safety of your tenants. That means protecting your property against people who walk into it inadvertently, as well as those who trespass with the intent to commit vandalism or burglary. The first category could well be taken care of with the “private property; no trespassing” signs. While it seems obvious that one cannot simply walk onto someone’s property without permission, a “no trespassing” sign posted on your property goes a long way in disregarding any claim by trespassers that it was unintended because they did not realize that the area was someone’s property. 

Laws Related to No Trespassing Signs

It is important to remember, however, that a “No Trespassing” sign will be nothing without some authenticity to back it up. The Attorney Referral Service urges owners in Los Angeles to file a “No Trespass Authorization Form”. This form allows police officers to arrest anyone who is trespassing; without it, police officers can only kick loiterers and vagrants off the property, which could potentially lead to a recurring problem. Be sure to file the form every year so that your interests are well protected. In addition to the form, it is crucial that “No Trespassing” signs state that violators will be prosecuted, and include the relevant code section LAMC § 41.24

Tips to Protect your Property from Trespassers

If posting “No Trespassing” signs around your property just doesn’t seem like enough, here are some other helpful tips to make sure those loiterers stay gone for good! Here are some answers to how to keep people off your property:

  1. Add exterior lighting to deter trespassing and to enhance safety! Trespassers may enter your property at night if they’re under the impression that nobody can see them. If they’re trespassing to vandalize or commit crimes, they may think twice if they’re under bright lights. The use of motion sensor lights can go a long way in saving on electricity costs while keeping the property safe.
  2. Fencing helps you keep the good guys in, and the  criminals out. Adding a fence around your property can make your tenants feel more secure while keeping trespassers off your property.
  3. Security cameras serve a number of different functions. The first being that they act as a deterrent for trespassers. The fact that trespassers will be under the glare of the cameras could be enough to keep them at bay. In fact, there is no better answer to how to scare trespassers than to install security cameras.  Needless to say that other than discouraging trespassers, the security camera can also provide the necessary footage in case of an actual event of trespassing.

By displaying “Private Property; No Trespassing” signs, and taking a few extra security precautions, you will ensure that your tenants and the building are less susceptible to trespassers and vagrants. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry!


Trevor Henson

Trevor Henson is an experienced entrepreneur (10+ highly-successful start-ups) and property investor with a demonstrated history of building and leading teams in investment property management environments, maximizing returns for property owners, and optimizing properties through construction management and re-positioning. He…
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Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

Despite putting up a no trespassing sign, if your neighbor is acting particularly aggressive or dangerous on your property, calling the police is the best and quickest thing to do. Otherwise, document the violation and report it to the police. Get the date and time. It would also be very helpful if you could get pictures and testimonials from eyewitnesses.

Even if there is no sign, if the property has been improved and is clearly in use, or if the property is fenced, or if the owner has notified the person directly that entry is not permitted, then a person may be prosecuted for trespassing.

‘No trespassing’ signs must be placed near or along the boundaries of the property at intervals of no more than 200 meters (660 feet). Signs must be clearly visible and must be high enough and close enough for people to easily read.

Yes, according to the law, the landowner, the legal occupant, or an authorized representative can put up the ‘no trespassing’ sign on any portion of their property. Basically, the party in legal possession of the property or land can put up the sign.