Frequently Asked Questions

Law enforcement officers do not normally have the authority to go onto private property, which is not open to the public, and remove individuals or request them to leave without the consent or authority of the property owner. If an officer observes someone on private property when the business is closed, or a problem is reported by someone who does not have the authority to sign a trespass complaint, the officer must contact the person who is legally responsible for the property.

An Authorization to Enforce and Prosecute Criminal Trespass Violations (also referred to as a "Letter of Trespass") with the Hendersonville Police Department gives officers permission to act on behalf of the property owner or manager in trespass situations. In addition, officers who observe trespassers on private property can address the problem immediately, rather than having to wait, contact a property owner or manager, if one can be located, or take no action at all.

If you are encountering trespassing issues on your property, the Hendersonville Police Department offers an Authorization to Enforce and Prosecute Criminal Trespass Violations (or Letter of Trespass) that allows officers to respond to your property and address trespass complaints without you needing to be present every time.

By filling out the request form (PDF) and complying with posting requirements, the Hendersonville Police Department can act, in the absence of the owner, for purposes of enforcing laws against any person found on private property without the owner's consent or lawful purpose.