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Quick Question About Schools and Trespassing

Posted: Mon May 21, 2007 8:54 pm
by Will938
I go jogging at my old high school track when I get a chance, often times at 10PM - 11PM. I see no signs indicating that it is off limits, no locked gate or fence keeps me from entering, and no one has ever told me to leave.

Years ago the school security would drive around the school shining lights onto the building, every once in a while they might spot me on the track and drive over to see whats up. But nowadays schools are getting much more up tight about things, and I'd hate to get busted while carrying and trespassing.

Is there a general rule concerning this and trespassing?

Posted: Mon May 21, 2007 11:05 pm
by srothstein
The general rule on trespassing is that you have to enter without the effective consent of the owner. Crossing a fence line that is obviously designed to keep people out or livestock in is considered effective notice that the owner does not want you there.

If there is no fence, or the fence is left with periodic openings for people to enter (open gates or no gates), you are not trespassing. My school district invites the people in to use the track at night, so you might just check with your school to see. Advanced permission is probably the best thing, but if they say no, at least you know.