Core principles
- Trespass is governed by provincial/territorial law. Entry without permission, or remaining after consent is withdrawn, may be trespass.
- Respect signs, fences, locks, and intact boards. Do not force entry or create access.
- Implied license: open, public‑facing entrances allow ordinary access during open hours; this does not include restricted/back‑of‑house areas.
- Consent can be withdrawn at any time. If asked to leave, depart calmly by a safe route.
- Photography and privacy: avoid photographing people in situations with a reasonable expectation of privacy. Public place photography is different from entering private property.
If approached or asked to leave
- Stay calm and respectful; keep hands visible; don’t run.
- Owners/security: leave promptly; do not re‑enter.
- Police: follow lawful instructions. If detained, you may ask if you are free to go and request to speak with a lawyer.
- Do not consent to searches you do not understand.
- Write down what happened afterwards; avoid escalating online posts.
Common consequences
- Request to leave or formal trespass notice.
- Warning or ticket/fine under provincial law.
- Police attendance for ID/report; detention/arrest in some contexts.
- Civil liability for damage; criminal charges for break & enter, vandalism, theft.
Where to check the law
- Use your province/territory’s official legislation portal to search for “trespass,” “property,” and “privacy.”
- Alberta: qp.alberta.ca • British Columbia: bclaws.gov.bc.ca • Saskatchewan: publications.saskatchewan.ca • Manitoba: web2.gov.mb.ca/laws
- Ontario: ontario.ca/laws • Québec: legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/en • New Brunswick: laws.gnb.ca
- Nova Scotia: nslegislature.ca/legc/statutes/ • Prince Edward Island: princeedwardisland.ca/en/legislation • Newfoundland & Labrador: assembly.nl.ca/Legislation/
- Yukon: laws.yukon.ca • Northwest Territories: justice.gov.nt.ca/en/legislation/ • Nunavut: nunavutlegislation.ca
- Federal: laws-lois.justice.gc.ca (privacy, criminal law)
This summary is informational and not legal advice. Laws change and depend on facts. When in doubt, do not enter and seek qualified advice.