The Lyons Police Department is launching a new weekly educational series aimed at helping residents better understand Indiana laws and how they apply to everyday situations.

The department's new "Know the Law" series will highlight different state laws, explain common misconceptions and provide information residents can use to better understand their rights and responsibilities.

The first installment focuses on criminal trespass, including how property owners can legally prohibit entry and the requirements for posting no-trespassing notices.

The following information was provided by the Lyons Police Department:

The Lyons Police Department is starting a new weekly posting series to help educate people on Indiana Law!

KNOW THE LAW — Criminal Trespass in Indiana

Did you know that Indiana law allows property owners to prohibit others from entering their property without having to personally tell every individual to stay away?

Under Indiana Code 35-43-2-2, criminal trespass can occur when someone knowingly or intentionally enters another person's property after being denied entry or refuses to leave after being directed to do so, provided the other elements of the offense are met.

How can property owners notify others that entry is prohibited?

Indiana law recognizes several methods, including:

Verbal or Written Notice: Personally informing someone that they are not permitted on the property.
Posted Signs: Displaying a "No Trespassing" sign or other appropriate notice at the main entrance where it is likely to be seen by the public.
Purple Paint Markings: Indiana recognizes properly placed purple markings on trees or posts as a legal method of notifying others that entry is prohibited.

Did you know purple paint has specific legal requirements?

Under Indiana law:

Trees: Purple markings must be vertical lines at least 8 inches long, with the bottom of each mark between 3 and 5 feet above the ground. Marked trees must be no more than 100 feet apart.
Posts: Purple markings must cover at least the top 2 inches of the post, with the bottom of the marking between 3 feet and 5 feet 6 inches above the ground. Marked posts must be no more than 36 feet apart.

All markings must be readily visible to someone approaching the property. Additional requirements apply to shared fences.

Is a sign required for someone to be charged with trespassing?

Not necessarily! A person can be denied entry through direct verbal communication, written notice, proper signage, or qualifying purple markings. Certain other forms of unauthorized entry are also covered by Indiana law.

Criminal trespass is generally a Class A misdemeanor, although certain circumstances can result in felony charges.

Whether you're a homeowner, farmer, business owner, or someone enjoying the outdoors, understanding property boundaries and respecting the rights of others helps prevent unnecessary conflicts.

This information is provided for general public education and is not legal advice. Individual circumstances may involve additional legal considerations.