Although only a misdemeanor, trespassing in Texas is still a criminal act that could result in arrest. As such, individuals—including those that are hunting or camping on public land—must stay aware of their surroundings to ensure that they don’t go onto private property where they are not wanted. To help shed more light on this topic, here are a few important details to know about criminal trespassing that could help you stay out of jail and avoid the need for a bail bond agency.

Guide to Texas Trespassing Laws

How Does Texas Law Define Trespassing?

Under Penal Code Section 30.05, Texas law defines criminal trespass as an act when one person fully enters the private land of another without consent. Individuals must receive notice that they are not allowed on the property or remain on the land when the owner has told them to vacate.

What Counts as Notice?

Visible signage of forbidden entry is one of the most common forms of notice. The owner—or someone acting on their behalf—may also provide notice through verbal or written warnings.

The conditions of the land may also serve as valid notice. For example, a fence or purple paint marks on trees or posts indicate that entry is forbidden without permission. Crops visibly in the process of cultivation or harvest also provide a form of notice.   

What Are the Potential Penalties for Trespassing?

In most cases, criminal trespassing is considered a Class B misdemeanor that carries a maximum penalty of a $2000 fine and 180 days of jail time.

Possessing a deadly weapon at the time of the trespass, however, can escalate the crime to a Class A misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of a $4000 fine and one year of jail time.

If an offender is apprehended no further than 100 feet from an agricultural boundary, the act may only be considered a Class C misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of a $500 fine and no jail time.

How Should I Handle a Trespassing Arrest?

If you are arrested for trespassing, follow the orders of law enforcement, and if you believe it to be necessary, exercise your Miranda Rights. Once you are processed at the jail, you will undergo a hearing to determine how much is required to post bail. If you do not have funds available to post this amount, call a trusted bail bond agency to provide financial support.

If you’ve been arrested for criminal trespassing in Bowie County, Bi-State Bail Bond offers support to get you out of jail and home safe. Serving the Texarkana, TX, community for more than two decades, this bail bond agency is recognized for its dedicated 24-hour service and timely responses. To make the process easier, this provider also offers payment plan options to cover the non-returnable bond fee. You can learn more about these services by calling a local agent at (903) 794-2245 or by visiting their website.