How to Prevent Trespassing on Your Property

By eHow Business Editor

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Someone tresspassing on your property can compromise your peace of mind. Fortunately, you can follow these steps to keep tresspassers out of your life.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

No Trespassing signs
Map of your property lines

Alert Trespassers

Step1

Post signs. Visible warnings at reasonable intervals along property boundaries can ward off unintentional tresspassers. These signs also will warn intruders that you are prepared to prosecute offenders.

Step2

Build a barriers. Signs may be ignored by determined trespassers, but a fence takes a bit of time and effort to breach. A simple fence can repel hunters, some animals and casual invaders. A stone wall can be even more effective and aesthetically pleasing.

Step3

Remember that many people may not realize they are trespassing. For instance, a person whose car has stalled may enter your property hoping to find help. Ask trespassers to state their business before calling the police.

Get Professional Assistance

Step1

Call the police if tresspassers refuse to leave, or if they threaten you. It's your land, and local law enforcement is there to help keep you safe on your property.

Step2

Follow up by obtaining a restraining order if an offender continues to trespass on your property. You can obtain this from your local district attorney's office.

Step3

Seek support from the Stalking Resource Center of the National Center for Victims of Crime if mere trespassing develops into stalking. If your private property is a business, turn to the U.S. Small Business Administration (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

A warning is often sufficient to repel trespassers. For trespassers who ignore your boundary signs, verbally warn them that they are entering private property and ask them to leave.
As a property owner, you have a right to allow certain groups onto your property while excluding others. For instance, you have the right to exclude hunters while welcoming hikers. Erect signs that reflect your rules.
Never use inappropriate force to repel trespassers, such as releasing vicious dogs or firing warning shots. These acts may be illegal and leave you vulnerable to lawsuits.