No Trespassing
Rural crime begins with trespassing. Whether the crime involves theft, vandalism or other violations, a person has to enter property illegally to commit the crime.
State law that took effect Jan. 1, 2004, increases the penalty for people who trespass on farms and ranches. The law revised the penalty provisions of Section 602.8 of the California Penal Code. It raised the penalty to $75 for a first offense of trespass, and to $250 for a second offense. A third or any subsequent offense would constitute a misdemeanor that carries a penalty of imprisonment in the county jail not exceeding six months or a fine of up to $1,000, or both. Read the full Penal Code section here.
For farmers and ranchers to benefit from the law, they must ensure that "No Trespassing" signs are displayed properly. Signs must be displayed at intervals of not less than three signs per mile along all exterior boundaries and at all roads and trails entering the land.
"No Trespassing" signs, in English and Spanish, are available to Farm Bureau members from CFBF. Signs in English cost $1.35 each. Signs in Spanish cost $1.62 each. Shipping costs will be added to each order.
To order, call toll-free, 800-698-FARM; e-mail helpdesk@cfbf.com.