A person commits the offense of criminal trespass or criminal trespassing by entering or remaining on the property of another—including residential land, agricultural land, recreational land (such as a vehicle park), a building, an aircraft, or an automobile—without consent and if the person (1) had notice that the entry was forbidden, or (2) received notice to depart, but failed to do so.

The definitions and penalties for criminal trespassing vary from state to state and are usually located in a state’s penal or criminal code (statutes).

In Minnesota, criminal trespass is defined under Minnesota Statutes section 609.605. A person may be charged with criminal trespass if they enter or remain on property without consent and have been notified that entry is forbidden or have been asked to leave but fail to do so. This applies to various types of property, including residential, agricultural, recreational, as well as buildings and vehicles. The notice that entry is forbidden can be given in different forms, such as posted signs, fencing, or verbal communication from the property owner or authorized person. Penalties for criminal trespass in Minnesota vary depending on the circumstances and the type of property involved. They can range from misdemeanors, which may result in fines and/or jail time, to felonies for more serious offenses, which can carry heavier fines and longer prison sentences. It is important for individuals to respect property boundaries and to leave when asked by the property owner or representative to avoid potential legal consequences.