Protecting your property from unwelcomed trespassing increases the safety of your property and the community. Proactively preventing trespassing can reduce the risk of criminal activity, fires, illegal camping and lodging on your property and improve safety for your neighborhood and community.
How to Deter Trespassing
Trespassing is defined as entering the property of another without permission or the right to do so. Here are a number of ways to reduce trespassing:
For Residential Property:
Increase lighting
Maintain landscaping
Trim overgrown trees and bushes
Install landscaping that discourages sitting
Install fencing around the property
Post "No Trespassing" signs
Hire private security
For Vacant Residential Property:
Ask neighbors to monitor the property
Hire private security to monitor the property
Use timers to turn on indoor and outdoor lights
Maintain landscaping
Secure trash or recycling containers
For Commercial Properties:
Lock dumpsters, trash and recycle bins
Design public spaces to discourage misuse
Have plants at sidewalk level. Raised planters should be at least 4′ high and uncomfortable for seating
Post and enforce rules of conduct for public use
Install surveillance cameras to cover public areas
Do not offer food or money. It may encourage more panhandling. If you are encouraged to help the homeless, it is better to contribute to local charities, missions, food banks, or social service organizations. For more information on where to donate visit www.echtf.org
Note:
Some improvements to lighting, landscaping, and fencing are subject to certain Municipal Code standards. Please check with the City’s Planning team before making improvements at 619-441-1742 or email at planning@elcajon.gov
