Trespassing means using private property without permission or using public property illegally. It can happen in many ways, for example:
- Trespassers may use private or unmaintained roadways to dump waste or conduct illegal activities
- ATV riders and snowmobilers may trespass on farmers’ fields, which can cause serious damage to crops and cost a lot of money
- Criminals sometimes use fields or open spaces to start drug grow-ops
- Young people may gather on private property – such as a forest, field or abandoned home – to drink or do drugs
What to do about trespassing
If an unwanted person is on your property or you see an example of trespassing on someone else’s property, report it immediately to the police. Always use common sense and avoid putting yourself in danger by approaching the trespasser.
For more information
- Trespass to Property Act of Ontario: Read more about illegal entry into private and public property, and what you can do about it
- Crime Mapping Tool: Find out about calls for police service in specific neighbourhoods or across the city
- Crime statistics: Learn about crime statistics in the city and review annual trends by ward
