Business Crime Prevention
Criminal Trespassing

UNDERSTANDING THE LAW

The laws governing criminal trespassing in Washington State and Seattle city limits can be found here:

SMC 12A.08.040 | RCW 9A.52.070 | RCW 9A.52.080

It is permissible to:

• Prohibit non-customers from entering a retail business, or entering or loitering in the parking lot or adjoining grounds owned by the business.

• Allow only a specified number of juveniles to enter or remain in a retail business at one time.

• Ask an individual to leave a retail business or adjoining parking lot because he/she is not a customer, or is disruptive, or is suspected of shoplifting or for similar non-discriminatory reasons relating to that individual.

• Prohibit non-residents from parking lots and common areas in apartment buildings.

It is NOT permissible to:

• Discriminate against certain classes of people.

TRESPASS ENFORCEMENT OPTIONS

Notification:

• The trespasser must be notified that he/she is not privileged to enter or remain either verbally, by clearly posted sign, or both.

Police Enforcement:

• If the trespasser remains or returns, dial 9-1-1 and report the incident. The police will respond. The police can cite the trespasser for violation of the trespass law which carried a penalty of up to one year in jail and a fine up to $5,000, and remove the trespasser(s) from the citizen.

Citizen Commitment:

• Citizens wishing enforcement of the criminal trespass ordinance on their property should call or write to their local precinct commander.

DOWNLOADS

No Trespassing Sign

Trespass Enforcement Authorization Form