The Chatham-Kent Police Service has launched a new program aimed at helping business and commercial property owners address ongoing trespassing and loitering issues.
Police announced the introduction of the Trespass Authority Agent Program, which allows registered property owners to authorize officers to act as their agent for the enforcement of Ontario’s Trespass to Property Act.
Under the program, police may take enforcement action on behalf of participating property owners without requiring the owner to be present during an incident.
Police said registration is necessary because officers cannot automatically act as an agent for every private property owner under provincial legislation unless authority has been formally granted.
The service said the registration process establishes a documented relationship between property owners and police, helping ensure officers act lawfully and consistently when responding to trespassing complaints. Properties enrolled in the program will display signage indicating police have pre-authorized authority to assist with trespass enforcement.
The program applies only to properties specifically registered through the initiative.
Business and commercial property owners can register through the police service’s online portal, here.
The Chatham-Kent Police Service said the initiative is part of its ongoing efforts to work with property owners and community partners to improve community safety and security.
