Under Seattle's criminal trespass ordinance a citizen owning or occupying a premises has the authority to exclude people.

Provisions of the Law
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.

Enforcement
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(s) remains or returns, dial 911 and report the incident. The police will respond. The police can cite the trespasser(s) for violation of the trespass law which carries a penalty of
up to one year in jail and a fine up to $5,000, and remove the trespasser(s) from the premises.

Citizen Commitment: Citizens wishing enforcement of the criminal trespass ordinance on their property should call or write to their local precinct commander. SNG provides signs to support enforcement of trespass legislation. Posting signs on the property is required. The property/business owner must also sign an agreement with the Seattle Police Dept. Contact your local precinct to sign up.

Get sign order form and brochure on Criminal Trespass.
Get sign order form only.

Seattle Police Department Trespass Enforcement Authorization Form