Police in Chatham-Kent are launching a new program to help business and commercial property owners better address trespassing and loitering.
The Trespass Authority Agent Program will enable registered property owners to authorize Chatham-Kent Police Service officers to “act as their agent” for the purpose of enforcing the Trespass to Property Act.
Under Ontario’s Trespass to Property Act, police cannot automatically act as an “agent” for every private property owner unless authority has been formally granted.
The property registration process will create a clear, documented relationship between the property owner and the police service, ensuring officers are acting lawfully when addressing trespass offences when the owner isn’t present.
Registered properties will be required to display Trespass to Property Act Agent signage, identifying that police have pre-authorized authority to assist with trespassers.
Police officials are encouraging business and commercial property owners to register for the program online by clicking here.