Someone is squatting on my land, what can I do?
Posted by mystery202@reddit | AskUK | View on Reddit | 400 comments
[removed]
Posted by mystery202@reddit | AskUK | View on Reddit | 400 comments
[removed]
HauntingCicada2630@reddit
Fuck me there's some nasty twats on here đ
Ambitious-Elk-3350@reddit
Yeah, squatters.
HauntingCicada2630@reddit
Erm........ Whatever you say đ¤ˇ
hovis_mavis@reddit
Tell him to leave. Might not even be aware itâs private land.
Ambitious-Elk-3350@reddit
The vast majority of land in England is private land. Unless he thinks he owns it, he knows full well he doesn't.
ImmediatePiano6690@reddit
Best bet, it's crazy how often people can't grasp that gated fields are private land, if there's no public access point then you can't just stroll in.
Cakeo@reddit
You can in Scotland.
SoggyWotsits@reddit
People would be quick to boot someone out of their own garden, but seem to think other land is different!
ImmediatePiano6690@reddit
Best bet, it's crazy how often people can't grasp that gated fields are private land, if there's no public access point then you can't just stroll in.
Cow_Launcher@reddit
That was my thought, giving them the benefit of the doubt. I'd go have a chat.
And honestly, if they said, "Sorry, we didn't know, we were planning on leaving tomorrow morning." I might even let them do it... but I'd hold them to it.
Super-Craig@reddit
From one Landlord to another, you might consider hiring a professional squatter remover. They're someone who will squat with your squatters and make life unbareably uncomfortable for the squaters, until they eventually leave of their own accord.
Sburns85@reddit
Luckily in Scotland itâs now a criminal offence to squat a residential property
Logbotherer99@reddit
Or just shit in the tent
Virtual_Opinion_8630@reddit
This is news to me!
Doesn't that cost a lot? What exactly do they do to do drive trespassers out?
PARFT@reddit
Heâs just tryna get rid of his squatter removers who have been on his land for two years
newtonbase@reddit
Someone you have invited is going to be a lot harder to remove than someone you haven't.Â
SpamJavelin00@reddit
The person you invited is only there for the money though , and probably has a home of their own & no reason to stay longer than necessary . Unless op is so stupid he asks a homeless squatter to get rid of his existing homeless squatter !!
ideonode@reddit
Well then you get the squatter remover remover to come round...
tobotic@reddit
Then you swallow a cat to catch the bird.
SpamJavelin00@reddit
Exactly ! When a bird shits on your car what to do you ? Get a bigger bird or a cat. It soon buggers off
Super-Craig@reddit
Fortunetly, I've never encountered this, but it's definitely a consideration, and why you do your due diligence and make sure that you're actually hiring a professional.
SpamJavelin00@reddit
If I was in that situation, I would ask around (ask the security at local nightclub, bouncers usually love bouncing and ejecting ! Otr any labourer or similar !) & I reckon if you offered 3 gorillas on the door ÂŁ250 each for 10 minutes work, your squatting problem will have vanished by 9am the next day. All they need to do is sit down and play cards & all squatters will very quickly decide to move on. DO NOT attempt to do it via lawyers , squatters will play the game and drag it out , it takes 12 months and will cost you at least 5k, at the end of which 3 gorillas will enter and ask them to leave , anyway. No violence , no connection to you, as far as youâre concerned theyâre just 2 groups of squatters competing over the squat. But youâll know the new squatters will go home after 30 minites . And then for gods sake secure the building so squatters canât come back !!
Hot_Proposal_3503@reddit
Op said the squatter was in a tent
SpamJavelin00@reddit
So what ? You may have noticed the discussion progressed & there was replies asking what âsquatter removers â actually do, generally. Thanks for your input though , I am often insecure about my ability to comprehend English, so itâs reassuring to have it ratified by a virgin who cannot read flowing replies. đđđ
n3m0sum@reddit
Generally behaving badly and in an anti social manner, but just the right side of legal.
Stay up late, play music the squatters don't like, knock on their doors and ask stupid questions constantly. Monitor and record anything illegal that the squatters do for reporting to the police.
I gather it's a bigger thing in the US.
papayametallica@reddit
Youâre trespassing. If you donât leave voluntarily Iâm coming back with my guns
n3m0sum@reddit
In the UK that's a spectacular way to end up in prison.
While guns are allowed to a greater extent than many realise. The police tend to not fuck around when it comes to gun violence.
papayametallica@reddit
Ah my bad wrong country
Virtual_Opinion_8630@reddit
Armed police right away ...
Joneb1999@reddit
In the UK you may be challenged to go get your gun because some major laws could be broken by you.
jools4you@reddit
What guns.
ExcitingCriticism524@reddit
Iâve seen videos of the ones in the US and a lot of the times the squatters have convictions where they arenât near guns. So the squatter movers move in with a firearm and the squatters either move out or get arrested for living in a home with a firearm.
n3m0sum@reddit
That seems an incredibly effective shortcut. But not one that's available in the UK.
Flashy-Report5368@reddit
I mean, if I was squatting a house and another squatter turned up and had a quiet word in my ear: âmy mateâs just reported his legally owned shotgun as stolen. Heâs told the police he saw you making off with it, and given them this address. Iâve hidden said shotgun somewhere in the building, good luckâ Iâd probably move out?
ExcitingCriticism524@reddit
Definitely effective and not sure how it would really work here in the UK.
n3m0sum@reddit
If there was any worry about the squatters being violent, and not b being allowed access to guns, very rare in the UK.
It would probably fall to the gun owner to make sure that the guns are out of reach. Essentially it's more likely that the gun owners licenced privilege to have guns where they live would be revoked. The squatters rights to live somewhere (even if in civil dispute) would probably trump the gun owners licenced privilege to store guns safely where they live.
Firthy2002@reddit
Squatters wouldn't risk getting violent as they would likely be arrested.
Low-Opening25@reddit
in UK such practices would end up sanctioned for causing nuisances and possibly end ip with record
Substantial-Newt7809@reddit
Not if they have permission to be there and the only people bothered are trespassers.
Low-Opening25@reddit
harassing persons is illegal with or without permission
Substantial-Newt7809@reddit
They aren't harassing anyone. They are making use of the land within the perameters the law allows. It's entirely legal to go in to your garden or land at night and listen to music so long as you aren't bothering people in their own homes or accommodation.
Trespassers are not in their own home or rented accommodation, they have no right to file a noise complaint as they shouldn't be there in the first place. I assure you, if they attempted that, the council or police would be much more interested in their trespassing.
emmjaybeeyoukay@reddit
Nothing to stop you hiring a farmer with some silage to spray the land down ready for it to be turned over. I can assure you no-one will want to squat on the land while its being / been sprayed
Front-Parsley1901@reddit
"silage"? Do you mean slurry?
Low-Opening25@reddit
that would work, but only because it is a field
Joneb1999@reddit
What happens if these professional squatter removers are chucked out and told to disappear or they will wish they did? Do they go to the cops? Can they win against a court for trying to incite violence and maybe breaking other laws? Will they be paid enough to lose a hand if not their life. Are they prepared to defend themselves? Are they John Wick?
I absolutely hate when tough guys and dim wits get themselves hurt or even killed being daring and then the crying starts as if it's a tragedy. If a person puts themselves in danger they got to accept the real consequences and not the fantasy that they are invincible and everyone else is going to fold to them like a piece of paper.
n3m0sum@reddit
The squatter removers will have a legitimate lease with the property owner, establishing their legal right to be there.
They are normally armed with cameras to record evidence. If a squatter were to threaten a tenant with violence then yes the police would be called.
That is something that is guaranteed to escalate civil trespass to criminal aggravated trespass. Trespass, or behaviour while trespassing, that intentionally prevents legitimate use, crosses a threshold into criminal.
A night in the cells for the squatter, property may be reclaimed right there, change the locks.
Yes it has risks, but probably no more than working club security at a weekend.
doegrey@reddit
I imagine itâs not cheap. Youâre asking someone to essentially put their life on hold to be such a nightmare for the squatters that they leave to escape them. I imagine if the remover only turned up during office hours it would be a tad obvious and the squatter would also have breathing space they shouldnât have.
Firthy2002@reddit
They need to stay put in case the squatter ventures out so they can secure the place for the owner.
your-a-bellend@reddit
One of my mates bought a house to do up. Squatters moved in and he was having an expensive nightmare getting rid of them. Another mate had left army and wasnt working, He gave squatters sob story that he was homeless, ex army and they let him stay. He moved himself in with his 2 dogs, let them shit everywhere, get drunk and act like a nob. Squatters moved out after a week.
SockSock@reddit
What kind of beer do dogs like? Pedigree?
your-a-bellend@reddit
Haha yes thatâs the fave, they hate wildcat ipa though.
No_Act_2773@reddit
and get nervous at brewdog products..
Joneb1999@reddit
Were the squatters just wimps? Would he walk away if he was told to leave and threatened? Was he prepared if a squatter was psycho and ran him and his dogs through or does he think he's Rambo with hellhounds.What if he is in a fight, his dogs savage one of them and the dog is put to sleep. Is he ready if he has to go to jail for gbh or even murder? There are so many ways going undercover will go bad and if you go out being tough be prepared to meet someone tougher. That kind of life is often a short one and you have to be either a maniac or a complete idiot. A maniac may accept the consequences but idiots cry in the corner of their cell at night.
AdDependent5136@reddit
Squatters in the UK are usually hippy dippy leftists, not the mentally ill nutters you see in the states.
your-a-bellend@reddit
Heâs huge and has always been a bit crazy. The dogs were German shepherds, well trained and friendly. It was 3 lads squatting, from what I have heard they were hippy/activist types. So he went in not expecting any kind of violence or aggression from them. At the time he was in late 30âs and done tours of Iraq and Afghanistan. Witnessed some horrible things and when he left army he wasnât thinking like me or you would.
WrongExplanation1065@reddit
How did he then get rid of his other mate?
Firthy2002@reddit
Basically do stuff that is legal or illegal without further trashing the place but annoys the squatters so that they leave. Think loud music at all hours, hassling them with annoying questions, stealing their food, locking parts of the property off, etc.
Chris-TT@reddit
They stand next to them, singing đś âI know a song that will get on your nerves, get on your nerves, get on your nervesâŚâ constantly for however many days it takes them to leave.
Secret_Bird6060@reddit
How do I get such a job?
SimplyFootballNet@reddit
I'd probably end up just making a new bro
ilikeyourgetup@reddit
Advertise
Super-Craig@reddit
This is definitely how you get started in the business.
However, the squatter removers I used were actually recommended to me by the Chief Constable's Secretary, and after using them to great success I in turn recommended them to my fellow Landlords.
EverybodySayin@reddit
What do they actually do to get rid of them?
SpamJavelin00@reddit
If theyâre squatters , a large gang of noisy lads will squat right beside them (and I mean within a couple of feet of them !) or simply enter the building & tell them if theyâre still there in 30 minutes , serious injuries will occur . Going in with a German shepherd and threaten to allow it to eat them - lots of ways the imaginative can remove a squatter. Squatting right alongside them and overdoing their own nuisance traits - usually does the trick
Worth-Ease-2386@reddit
I was a bit shocked when a friend told me that after his tenant had stopped paying rent, he went around with three of his rugby mates, barged in and started playing cards and drinking beers. They made it obvious they weren't leaving. The tenant packed up and left.
This was when he was at university. What shocked me was he is a QC (now retired). Different times.
SpamJavelin00@reddit
And you canât be arrested for playing cards and drinking a beer on your OWN property , with your own friends , can you !! Clever QC !! You see , lots of ways !!
Cakeo@reddit
I really can't tell sarcasm these days
PatientInitial882@reddit
Hint: John Denver.
chrisridd@reddit
Wouldnât playing him come under âcruel and unusual punishmentâ?
ICanEditPostTitles@reddit
The one example that I remember from watching a YouTube video about an American guy who does it: He squatted alongside a man and after a few days discovered that the man was on parole and had a restriction that he could not have guns in his property during his parole period. So the squatter remover brought his legally owned pistol with him and made it clear he would keep it there at all times, which forced the other guy to leave and find another squat.
rutherfraud1876@reddit
If you're doing this in the USA you better have a gun anyway
reallynotbatman@reddit
There was another American youtuber who's sisters place had a squatter...so he moved in too
https://youtu.be/pwOY7LLaMLE?si=jxw4YAScmd8RVOMI
That's the first video of it
EverybodySayin@reddit
I'd just do this personally https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZH80bTJukA
Jumpy-Jello-@reddit
In which country?
Super-Craig@reddit
Good question. England initially, but I've also hired Scottish and Irish specialists.
Insila@reddit
Haha, Scottish and Irish "specialists" in the field. There's some irony to be found here.
Imposseeblip@reddit
"In the field". Nice use of phrase considering OOPs situstion.
Insila@reddit
I didn't even consider that :P
Joneb1999@reddit
Must be the Wild West.
Joneb1999@reddit
Is this in the Wild West? Are these professional squatter removers potentially threatening and violent people or will they just die if a psychopath with a hand axe and survival knife comes at them. Are they prepared to be arrested for and maybe charged with murder or gbh and maybe using a weapon if they "defend" themselves?
Super-Craig@reddit
Sometimes it feels like the wild west, what with all these balaclava wearing, machete wielding roadmen running around like their auditioning for a 'Wasteland Raider' role in the latest Mad Max / Fallout series.
Wandering_ENTJ@reddit
Does that ever actually happen? I hear stories on the news, but it's hard to know what to believe.
Super-Craig@reddit
Yes, it happens, but not organically.
ChrisRR@reddit
Squat
zoppaTheDim@reddit
Look under Thug in the want ads.
JobAnxious2005@reddit
Youâre doing it now.
Just for free.
Will_202@reddit
I could definitely do this job
mystery202@reddit (OP)
Thank you for the decent reply amongst a sea of comments suggesting I either give out charity or havenât talked to the bloke
Exact-Action-6790@reddit
But how do you get rid of the squatter remover?
CoffeeeGoblin@reddit
Cilit Bang!
Xp4t_uk@reddit
That's a continuous Big Brother idea right there.
Joneb1999@reddit
Plenty of people in prison could advise you of how to get rid of a nuisance but basically if two people come to blows one makes the other either disappear or wish they did walk away. The more squatter removers become more a thing, strangers will become suspects immediately.
jonis_tones@reddit
Obviously hire another squatter remover. Repeat until land is basically all squatters.
Super-Craig@reddit
It is definitely a consideration to have. It's also why you hire a professional squatter remover and not just hire any random thugs you find on the street.
Apprently there is quite a bit of finesse and strategy that goes into, not least of all to make sure that it's done legally.
Although, that being said, I have heard of Landlords hiring Travelers to great effect; Heard some really great day one removal stories.
johnathome@reddit
Ha, mate I worked with used to do that.
He said he used to piss in their bed and shit on their clothes, they soon got the message.
getoutmywayatonce@reddit
Interesting. Iâd have done things the other way round I reckon. Piss on the clothes and shit in their bed đ¤
Draigdwi@reddit
Just admit you are a đââŹ
getoutmywayatonce@reddit
Thanks for the idea! Randomly vomit a nice wet log of hairball and grassy spit all over the bed just before someone wants to get in it đĽ°
johnathome@reddit
Then you could wash the clothes and change the sheets. If the mattress is a bit minging makes it more of a hassle.
Shitting in the bed didn't work with Depp either...
getoutmywayatonce@reddit
True, my thinking was that theyâll notice the clothes. But thatâll just be a decoy. When theyâve accepted theyâll just have to sleep naked as everything has got a soaking, theyâll get into bed planning where to wash all their pissy clothes tomorrow, and lay right in a pile of freshly laid poo tactically nestled quite far down under the covers.
PeppercornWizard@reddit
In the UK that would be straight up criminal damage, despite whether they are on the land legally or not.
Super-Craig@reddit
Yes, this is correct. Definitely make sure that you're using a professional highly rated and verified squatter i.e One that doesn't resort to criminal actions to get the job done.
I will further add that the legal methods used are already super effective. Most squatters don't last more than a couple of weeks, and it's very rare that I've had a squatter situation last more than a month.
Wandering_ENTJ@reddit
What about those 'very rare' cases that last longer than a month?
Super-Craig@reddit
At that point, I'm not above putting a counter offer or two on the table.
However, in every case where I've had a squatter it's always been where I've had to remove the current tennant and put them up in a hotel. Typically if I'm installing gas-sealed quadruple glazing on main street facing windows, or soundproof insulation in walls or between floors, situations where it's just not acceptable to have the tenent present.
Wandering_ENTJ@reddit
Why are your 'fellow landlords' downvoting you?
Super-Craig@reddit
Caving to the squatters and rewarding them for their wrongdoing is going to look bad from anyones perspective, not just my fellow Landlords, but they especially will see it as a special kind of yellow-livered treachery.
However, putting a tenant up in a hotel isn't cheap, and offering the squatters a few carrots after there four weeks of the stick, which itself is an ongoing cost, is usually the most cost effective solution.
Also, gas-sealed windows and soundproof insulation isn't cheap, and making tenants aware of their existance is considered bad from by unscrupulous Landlords who typically answer tenant noise complaints with "there's nothing I can do about it". Hell, even putting my tenants up in a hotel is probably going to get me the side-eye from more than a few Landlords.
Jetboy01@reddit
Did you type that message one handed?
Super-Craig@reddit
I'm not sure that I understand the reference, but yes, I typed it out one handed.
Wandering_ENTJ@reddit
They could be referencing your previous hand injury.
Super-Craig@reddit
They could be. More likely though, they're a fellow Landlord calling me a wanker, but it's always best to give people the benefit of the doubt.
LambonaHam@reddit
Clearly not. If they were effective it wouldn't take weeks.
DeezWuts@reddit
What if i happen to shit my pants.
And im stood over there clothes.
And wearing no pants.
LambonaHam@reddit
Bit hard to prove, even the Fuzz take it seriously.
Substantial-Newt7809@reddit
While this is true, they would also eventually have to leave to do something about it such as get new clothes, at which point you keep them out.
Some people are willing to take that bullet.
johnathome@reddit
Was back in the 1970's, yes highly illegal.
Left_Set_5916@reddit
Are they Colin Robinson esk?
johnbobk@reddit
How do you get rid of the squatter removers? đ
Wandering_ENTJ@reddit
Have you ever resolved a squatter situation amicably by trying to talk to them?
Super-Craig@reddit
Yes, of course. In fact, that's usually how most squatter situations I've had were resolved.
Most squatters tend to be desperate people fallen on hard times. In almost every case I've encountered, they're not squatting by choice, but by necessity. Sure there are definitely a lot of substance abusers that don't feel a shred of guilt, or some remorseless Zoomers trying to pull a fast one, but most folk feel very guilty and deeply ashamed to have been forced to take these measures to put a roof over their heads.
In a lot of these cases the situation can be resolved by providing some basic human empathy. Truthfully, a drop of human kindness can go a long way, and for people who haven't seen much common decency, it can mean the world.
Wandering_ENTJ@reddit
Have you ever had to deal with a situation where one of your tenants became a squatter?
1Marmalade@reddit
But then what if the squatter remover wonât move?!
DEADB33F@reddit
What if they won't leave once they've got rid of the squatters?
Super-Craig@reddit
As I said to someone else, this is definitely a consideration, and it's also why you go through the process of hiring a professional, instead of just hiring your mate or some random street thug.
A professional also has the added benefit of doing things legally, and not creating more problems for you later down the road.
allthingskerri@reddit
That sounds like an amazing job đ¤Ł
mdmnl@reddit
"They're someone who will squat with your squatters"
Quis custodiet ipsos custodes?
Neddlings55@reddit
Have you gone and asked him to move?
Physical_Noise123@reddit
You really think that type of person would just move? Its like asking the caravan people to not take up half a supermarket car park
Sburns85@reddit
Or you do what some people did and cause a lot of issues for the caravan users
BeagleMadness@reddit
As young, stupid, ignorant of the law students, me and some friends hiked in the Lake District. At the end of a long day, we set our tent up in an apparently very remote area, in some woods, where we thought we'd be bothering no one. It was nice there, so we stayed another night, having explored the fells for miles nearby during the day.
We were then awoken at 7am by the landowner shouting "Hello? Anyone in there?" - one of us popped their head out of the tent and was politely advised "You're on my land, just so's you know. I know you've been here two nights already now. But I'm sure you'll be moving on today though, right?" Of course our response was a mortified oh shit, sorry, yes of course, we'll be gone within the hour. And we quickly left, leaving no trace of us behind beyond some flattened grass, and found an official campsite, a few miles' walk away, to stay at the next night before we got the train home.
Most people are perfectly nice and will move on, slightly embarrassed, in that scenario. Some won't, in which you need to involve legal proceedings. But you don't know unless you ask in the first place?
giveitsometechno@reddit
I thought you were gonna end this novel with... So I bludgeoned him with his precious wahwah pedal
zoppaTheDim@reddit
Yes I do think theyâre exactly the type of person whoâd leave.
Neddlings55@reddit
What type of person exactly?
mystery202@reddit (OP)
Sorry long day, we have spoken to him and heâs refusing. We wouldnât have an issue with it, apart from heâs setting fires near horses along side his dog which seems to be aggressive towards the horses as well. Some are even coming into the stables with cuts on.
Neddlings55@reddit
In that case you report to the police under The Protection Of Livestock act.
The law has changed significantly recently in regards to that.
You can also make a report under The Dangerous Dogs Act.
I am surprised that you told the police this and they still say its a civil matter. Dogs chasing livestock and behaving aggressively are both very much police matters.
Jaded_Leg_46@reddit
Exactly this. Check the horses to see if the marks are cuts and nicks or if they're potential bite marks.
mystery202@reddit (OP)
Cheers mate thank you
Mrthingymabob@reddit
Got any nasty smelling manure available?
mojomonkey18@reddit
Fox shit. Thatâll do it
Jaded_Leg_46@reddit
Call the police back and tell them that you have a squatter tresspassing in an open field where there are animals. Tell them that you believe the squatter is endangering the horses because not only have you seen cuts and nicks on the horses and he's also lighting fires which are distressing the horses. Take pictures of the fires and the cuts on the horses, any damage or litter.
ruellera@reddit
They might not be aware itâs private land so this seems like a good first step.
The_Crow68@reddit
You really think OP has common sense if they use "there" instead of "their"? It's common pattern with those that don't know their grammar.
ToughLingonberry9034@reddit
'Â It's a common pattern'.
TheNinjaPixie@reddit
So you want a wary woman to just tell a homeless person, with maybe issues, to feck off? ok then braveheart.
Neddlings55@reddit
Where does it say the OP is a woman?
Why are you assuming the person is homeless? People like wild camping. They pitch their tents on private property all the time. They mainly go unnoticed.
We have a few that do this on my bosses land every year. We inform them its private property and ask them to move on. We have never had an issue with them complying.
TheNinjaPixie@reddit
The word "mum" led me to make the assumption that she may indeed be a woman. People like a lot of things, that doesn't mean they can just go right ahead and do them.
Vast_Ad6541@reddit
We found one person who would choose a bear insted of a man in a forrest.
DiscoBiscuit663@reddit
How dare you suggest that OP apply actual common sense instead of first consulting RedditâŚ
Vast_Ad6541@reddit
Its reddit bro, ofcourse they havent.
Timely-Bear-6942@reddit
đđđđ
tacticall0tion@reddit
setokaiba22@reddit
First thing the police would ask tbf, then theyâd ask if they were violent or aggressive
If you said no they wonât do anything
If you say yes they may come out
Firthy2002@reddit
If it's interfering with the horses' ability to graze, it's aggravated trespass.
audigex@reddit
You'd have a fucking hard time persuading the police or a court that a single tent on 12 acres is seriously interfering with the horses' ability to graze
Firthy2002@reddit
Irrelevant. If I wanted the horses to graze the part of the land you're squatting on, that's aggravated trespass because you're preventing it.
Happy_Chief@reddit
It requires the intention of the tresspass to be presenting the horses grazing. Not just that it so happened because of the trespass.
Firthy2002@reddit
Incorrect, any act that prevents lawful use of the property by the owner is enough, intentionally or otherwise.
Happy_Chief@reddit
Yeah, but the intention of the tresspass has to be preventing the lawful use.
If the intention is to set up a tent for 24hrs, thats not aggravated trespass.
RecentTwo544@reddit
Probably best asking on the UK Legal Advice sub, they know their onions.
The police are correct as tresspass is a civil matter, not a criminal one. However, if they get threatening or violent, then that is aggravated tresspass which is a criminal offence and police will attend.
You cannot damage their property though, as this would still be criminal damage on your part.
Best advice would be to speak to them and if they refuse to move and get angry, call the police and say you feel threatened by them.
SensibleChapess@reddit
Nope... They don't have to be threatening or violent for the threshold for the offence of Aggravated Trespass to be applied.
All. Someone has to do is politely, peacefully, refuse to move when asked to do so and the offence has been triggered.
It's commonly used by police to arrest peaceful, nonviolent, polite climate protestors.
RoastKrill@reddit
That's not what aggravated trespass means.
SensibleChapess@reddit
Would you like to expand on that claim?
I have personal experience of Aggravated Trespass, from arrest to prosecution.
I've been convicted of it myself, and know well over a hundred others who have also been convicted of it. I've been in court as a "Mackenzie friend", supporting several during their trials on poknts of law.
I've done online podcasts about it, explaining the laws used against Climate Protestors.
Aggravated Trespass, if you're asked to move and refuse to do so, no matter how politely, is sufficient for a conviction.
TomatoMiserable3043@reddit
Then you'll be able to provide some case law that shows this to be so.
RoastKrill@reddit
Being asked to move on is not an element of aggravated trespass which is defined in s68 of the criminal justice and public order act 1994. Climate protestors are often in breach of that act, but they would in fact be committing an offence under s68 even if they had not been asked to move on (unless they had an implied right of access, in which case they would not be trespassing until they had been asked to leave). They are found guilty of that offence because they are trespassing with intent to disrupt lawful activity, which campers are not.
You might be referring to s69 of that act, which makes it an additional offence to fail to leave land when ordered to do so by a police officer who reasonably believes you are committing, or intend to committ, aggravated trespass . You might be referring to s60c of that act (created by s83 of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts act 2022), which makes it an offence for a person over the age of 18 to fail to leave land within a reasonable time after they have been asked to leave, but only if they have at least one vehicle with them. You might be referring to powers for the police to ban or disperse protestors, but these powers don't rely on "trespass".
Can you point to news reporting or court cases to defend the claims you're making here?
SensibleChapess@reddit
I'm fully aware of the law.
Climate protestors, on point of principle, don't challenge the technicalities of the law when it's applied to them. They instead go to court to challenge the judge's conscience at being complicit in a system that's killing us.
TomatoMiserable3043@reddit
Untrue. In order for aggravated trespass to be made out, you have to prevent someone from carrying out a lawful activity or intimidate them in order to prevent the same.
Richard__Papen@reddit
Why isn't everything a criminal matter? How did they come to decide what is civil and what is criminal? Does this distinction exist in other countries?
Shyaustenwriter@reddit
Because in England and Wakes at least, if something isnât prohibited - itâs allowed and not, as in some countries, if it isnât stated to be permitted itâs illegal.
Richard__Papen@reddit
People sometimes talk about others being able to occupy your garden or your drive or even (in the past at least) your house and the police not being able to do anything about it. Surely this should be criminal? We're not talking about someone in a tent on a big patch of land well away from your house.
Shyaustenwriter@reddit
If they break into your house or premises, thatâs a different story and if theyâre being scary thatâs another but if, for example,they keep parking in your drive without causing damage the usual advice is get a locking bollard because itâs not a crime.
Richard__Papen@reddit
But how on earth is it not a crime for someone to repeatedly occupy your driveway?
Illustrious-Milk6518@reddit
Because the police barely have time to attend serious crimes. How the hell would they have time to attend petty parking arguments all day every day?Â
Richard__Papen@reddit
So you think it's fine for someone to keep parking on your driveway
Shyaustenwriter@reddit
Nope which is why the advice is - get a locking bollard. Itâs cheaper than the courts or sponsoring a new Act of Parliament
Illustrious-Milk6518@reddit
Nope, but I would put up a sign to charge parking, and take them to small claims if it kept happening. If youâre blocked in on your driveway, then itâs a crime.Â
Richard__Papen@reddit
What a hassle for someone to have to go to a small claims court.
Illustrious-Milk6518@reddit
So? The police donât have the resources. Youâre living in some fairytale world where all our taxes should go to resolving petty disputes with neighboursđ Get some car jacks and roll the car into the road if itâs that much of an issueÂ
Richard__Papen@reddit
You'll be done yourself for that
LoveBeBrave@reddit
Only if you damage the car.
Illustrious-Milk6518@reddit
Depends if youâre blocked in or blocked out. If youâre blocked in and move their car, the police wonât care because then itâs tit for tatÂ
Shyaustenwriter@reddit
Because thereâs no Dont be a Dickish Parker Act 1989. If thereâs no law that says itâs a crime, itâs not a crime
Richard__Papen@reddit
But why is there not such a law? Your answer is basically saying 'because there isn't'.
Powerful_Ideas@reddit
Because thus far it hasn't become a big enough issue for parliament to spend the time on making it a criminal offence.
CR1SBO@reddit
Because that's the answer.
If you want such a law, write to your politicians
n3m0sum@reddit
Broadly, but not exclusively. It's criminal offence if it's bad enough that the penalties include the possibility of prison time. These are often considered crimes against society, or degrade society.
It's a civil offence if the penalties are limited to just fines or court ordered restrictions. With no possibility of prison time. These are usually limited to disputes between individuals.
Civil offences can escalate if you ignore court fines or break court ordered restrictions, which can easily be a criminal matter.
Richard__Papen@reddit
Interesting, thanks.
But ... for example, burglary is essentially a dispute between the owners and the burglars without an effect on society so why is burglary a criminal offence but occupying someone else's land isn't. The occupation is, in a way, also using something that isn't theirs and preventing the owner from using it themselves.
n3m0sum@reddit
Burglers use damage or force to invade people's homes, for the intended purpose of depriving them of their hard earned property. This isn't just a dispute between two people. It eats away at the fabric of a safe and secure society.
Just like robbery isn't just a civil ownership dispute.
Most tresspass is a short lived and limited inconvenience, that causes no intentional damage. If it can be proven to involve intentional damage, or deliberately prevent legitimate use. Then it cosses a line to aggravated (criminal) trespass.
Most tresspass is briefly straying onto someone else's land. Bounty disputes, people taking shortcuts, or cheeky parking. Squatting isn't a huge problem in the scheme of things, and quickly becomes criminal.
Richard__Papen@reddit
Take your points but i very much do not feel safe if someone has the nerve to use my (small) driveway to park their car or to, say, pitch a tent in my (small) front garden.
PeppercornWizard@reddit
Of course it exists in other countries; anything you âsueâ someone for is matter of civil law.
If everything that was against the law was outright criminal, then the police and courts would be even more snowed under than they are now.
Richard__Papen@reddit
So it's just a case of the criminal system couldn't handle it all.
PeppercornWizard@reddit
Itâs just that a lot of problems donât need to be criminal matters to resolve because the level of harm is minimal. The court systems are different. Itâs like saying why doesnât an Italian restaurant serve Indian food as well.
Richard__Papen@reddit
What about the oft cited cases of people being able to occupy your (small) garden or drive or even your house?
PeppercornWizard@reddit
IIRC itâs been illegal to squat in residential property for a while now.
If they are disrupting any lawful activity then itâs aggravated trespass which is also a crime. If you canât use your garden or drive then thatâs a lawful activity so just push them out. If they fight back they are assaulting you.
Richard__Papen@reddit
But people shouldn't have to take the matter into their own hands to deal with such a thing. A lot of folk can't deal with physical or even verbal confrontation. We're not talking a mansion here with huge grounds.
Apparently someone could abandon their car on your drive and it can be very difficult to get it removed. AI says it's a Council matter but they are often reluctant to get involved. And you could be done yourself for damaging the car or somehow pushing it onto the road. WTF?
Which-World-6533@reddit
If you ask in that sub you will get the UK Legal Advice.
That might work if you have a lot of time and money on your hands.
RecentTwo544@reddit
Guessing you've never posted on there? Or even looked at that sub.
Which-World-6533@reddit
Lol. Redditor trying to conjure an argument over nothing.
n3m0sum@reddit
It is possible for it to be aggravated (criminal) tresspass. If the tresspass prevents legitimate use.
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1994/33/section/68
So if the tresspass makes the legitimate grazing unsafe, either for the horses or squatters. Then it is a criminal act.
RoastKrill@reddit
Only if the intention of the trespass is to prevent legitimate use, not if it happens to prevent legitimate use
Snaggl3t00t4@reddit
....ask a local farmer to muck spray liquid shit on the area the person is squatting. They'll move.
paolog@reddit
It worked in Carry On Camping.
mystery202@reddit (OP)
Good shout there mate, might be the move
Captaincadet@reddit
This is what farmers tend to do if they hear that a rave is about to happen around me. All the local farmers drop whatever they do, fill up their own tractors with muck and spray the field heavily.
Somehow ravers donât really fancy getting dancing in squidgy poo
Virtual_Opinion_8630@reddit
Which area?
ImmediatePiano6690@reddit
none because manure and slurry are both extremely valuable fertilisers, not worth just throwing down on any old field especially those that don't require it. More than likely it's Chinese whispers.
Captaincadet@reddit
Itâs valuable but the land and the damage to the land is more valuable than the slurry
Itâs not huge covering but just enough to make it unpleasant to be
ImmediatePiano6690@reddit
You mean the minimal damage that recovers in a couple weeks, because the damage is limited to the area of the sound system.
I don't think you realise just how unpleasant a rave can get, getting filthy is to be expected, most people are to spangled to know what's going on.
Captaincadet@reddit
Itâs more damaging than people think. Firstly itâs quite damaging to the community - ravers arenât often the most careful about the local community
Also the amount of trash is left is usually significant and this is the farmerâs responsibility to clean. Often more than not itâs littered over the fields so the farmer has to pay to get it removed and then binned!
Then you have the issue of glass and drugs etc which can be missed and then ingested by animals which leads to an expensive vet bill
If the farmer didnât think it was a problem, theyâll happily rent the field outâŚ
ImmediatePiano6690@reddit
Ah I see so you haven't actually witnessed any of this yourself, just seen stories from 'news websites' and just assumed all are like that, when reality is very different.
What you've described is the situation with festivals, starting to see where your crossing your information with as many ravers leave the site with minimal litter and nothing nearly as drastic as you claim.
That's the thing they don't, they would happily rent the space out but doing so brings in heaps of legal and health and safe, which is what they don't want to deal with even more paperwork.
Powerful_Ideas@reddit
the one around them
CR1SBO@reddit
Ravers tend not to like getting squidgy poo in any area
Familiar-Woodpecker5@reddit
Love this!
Aristo-Jack@reddit
Narc
Flashy-Nectarine1675@reddit
Farmers tend to evade tax too.
SoggyWotsits@reddit
If you mean they took advantage of a legal right to pass down their farms and therefore retain valuable knowledge, yes they did. I think you need to learn what evade means in that context.
Flashy-Nectarine1675@reddit
Yeah, it means to evade taxes, the taxes that we all have to pay.
I'm sorry that you don't understand a simple concept, and have to defend rich tax evaders,
SoggyWotsits@reddit
Evasion is illegal. Avoidance is legal. The inheritance tax rules were neither, it was just how things were. You clearly donât have the first idea about farming and how important it is to retain knowledge of the land. Youâre probably happy to eat a burger though, or chips.
When the farmers are forced to sell off their land because they canât pay the tax, donât complain when we have to rely on food imports from other countries. The land isnât just some asset. If they were that bothered about the value, farmers would sell it. Farm are their place of work and way of life, and also the means of producing food. Iâm sorry youâre so ignorant.
Flashy-Nectarine1675@reddit
Won't someone think of the millionaire tax dodgers.
Flashy-Nectarine1675@reddit
HatOfFlavour@reddit
You find some big lads with bigger dogs and louder sound systems. Slip them some money and booze and let them camp next to buddy boy. If you can find agreeable enough goons they'll keep the squatter awake until he can't stand it any more and it might just cost you in beer and cleanup.
Furicist@reddit
Spread horse muck all over the field, wait for the flies to arrive. Job done.
Zorica03@reddit
Get the sprinklers out. The fields might be getting dry, as weâve not had rain for a while.
Happy_Chief@reddit
Have they been there a few nights, or was this the first one?
If it's the first night, I'd just go talk to then. Chances are theyre passing through and thought the spot was tucked away enough to not be noticed. Realistically, what harm are they causing you for a single night?
Its posts like these that make me overjoyed I live in Scotland.
mystery202@reddit (OP)
Been bunked up for almost 2 months now, leaving litter amongst other issues outlined throughout the comments. The other big issue is that many young girls use the facilities and horses down there and now feel unsafe.
Happy_Chief@reddit
Ah, then it's a lawyer up time I'm afraid.
That's just not acceptable.
Belterhaze31@reddit
Have a chat with them, treat him/her like a human and ask if theyâd move on
If your reasonable with people, they usually are reasonable back
Factsonly42069@reddit
Reasonable people donât squatÂ
Belterhaze31@reddit
Squatting in someoneâs house or property I agree
A field though? About as reasonable as it gets in my eyes. The fellas pitched a tent for Christ sakes
BastardHelmet@reddit
Not his land and been asked politely to move. Time to move on. Property rights and law is necessary to prevent complete anarchy and a free for all.
Pyrocitus@reddit
Scotland is doing pretty okay with the right to roam laws, can be a bit leary up there sometimes but they've had those for a while and it's not flaming anarchy yet.
mattl1698@reddit
depends on where. my coworker is open about how he used to squat. he was squatting in an abandoned house that had been bought by the council using their "housing for homeless" fund but they never placed anyone in it (over the span of 10 years iirc). he was squatting in it after the 8 year mark of it being owned but empty. the council eventually went about with evictions (they left as soon as they got word of it going ahead, apparently went to the same pub as the council people in charge of it) and the council the property at a huge profit without ever having placed anyone in there.
louismarshmello@reddit
There is nothing unreasonable about having a tent and a campfire, let people live
throwaway49463@reddit
On someone elseâs land?
louismarshmello@reddit
They are a fellow human who are just trying to live. Itâs hardly hurting them for someone to be camping on their land, they have 12 acres
LambonaHam@reddit
Then they can live elsewhere can't they? I'm sure you have a sofa they can kip on.
throwaway49463@reddit
So because Iâve made the argument itâs someoneâs private property, if the owner wants them gone they should move. The reasonable course is to invite them to sleep on my sofa⌠in my own private property
LambonaHam@reddit
Yes.
The issue is you're fine when it impacts someone else, but you wouldn't be willing to make the same accommodation if you were impacted.
Your stance is very hypocritical.
throwaway49463@reddit
No, bro I replied to your comment on accident hahah. We agree
throwaway49463@reddit
They are indeed a fellow human trying to live. Itâs not really a matter of hurting anyone. Someone doesnât want them on their land, thatâs that.
LambonaHam@reddit
For a day or two? Maybe not.
But if it's continuous? Yeah, that's pretty unreasonable.
Factsonly42069@reddit
Reasonable people would ask. Creating a situation where you have to be told how to be an adult is unreasonable.Â
LambonaHam@reddit
Exactly. Camping for a day or two? Fine.
If they last long enough to be considered squatters, then they're unreasonable and should be dealt with as such.
FenrisSquirrel@reddit
OP has responded to another comment to clarify that they have asked him to move, he's refused, and the squatters dangerous dog is attacking the horses.
The squatter is a scumbag, plain and simple.
LambonaHam@reddit
Treat them with the same respect they treat you.
Which means ask them to leave civilly, and if they refuse, respond in kind.
BasisOk4268@reddit
Ask them to stand up
2KCoinsLTD@reddit
Its just a tent, can you find a big bad wolf to huff and puff or something?
Asleep-Ad9011@reddit
Since the Land is still in use. This is trespassing not just an ordinary squatting. Time to get Joe Law involved. Hopefully this helps
Sad-Grade6972@reddit
Do you or your mother have a shotgun licence?
Friendly_External345@reddit
Time to spray the fields with pig shit I'd say
tinybossss@reddit
Iâd show them my penis
mystery202@reddit (OP)
Cheers pal, all the best
willthecat13@reddit
i think your mum and her horses arenât using all 12 acres. theyâll move on eventually. empathy can go a long way
mystery202@reddit (OP)
You post hentai your opinion is invalid, plus itâs our land weâll do what we want with it thank you.
GrumpyIAmBgrudgngly2@reddit
Ask what the laws regarding squatting near where you live are. Some countries have squatters' rights. Dome countries do not allow squatters and they have no rights to actually squatters.
yossanator@reddit
Post to r/LegalAdviceUK and you'll get some solid advice.
They are trespassing and you are not allowed to have open fires on land without the owners consent.
secret_tiger101@reddit
Probably damaging the grazing as well
bestdogintheworld@reddit
I made the very drunken decision once to climb into a field with a longhorn (went to university in Texas) and he was none to pleased to have me in his space. Would it be legal to add some territorial animals to a field with a squatter to graze?
FornyHucker22@reddit
Be prepared to spend a lot of money and time if you follow their advice.
easist way is ask them to move then just make them move. đ
Which-World-6533@reddit
Yep. In the countryside a field needs fertiliser of all sorts. Might want to think about chicken droppings, or just letting some chickens wander around.
Also farm animals might need a bit exercise in that field.
Could be time to give a bull a field of his own.
Ok_Alternative_530@reddit
A borrowed Billy goat is a very effective grazer in fields with problem squatters. He will graze on anything, including the tent. He will also challenge anything or anyone on his bit of turf to a head butting contestâŚand he will win.
Colleen987@reddit
In England.
Hot-Satisfaction19@reddit
i know but it just reminded me of the french story :)
tmr89@reddit
But itâs not a criminal issue
SensibleChapess@reddit
It is a criminal matter if they're asked to move by the landowner or their representative and refuse.
Read up on the PCSC Act 2022, specifically the summary offence of Aggravated Trespass.
Trespass is civil, but from June 28th 2022, refusing to leave when asked to do so makes it a criminal matter. It's most commonly used by police forces to be able to arrest peaceful climate protestors, but applies to anyone refusing to move on when asked to do so.
vurkolak80@reddit
Aggravated trespass is something else.
What you're referring to (s.83 PCSC 2022) only applies if the person has a vehicle with them while they are occupying the land without permission, and there are other conditions that apply for it to be a criminal offence, mainly revolving around significant damage, disruption or distress being caused.
Aggravated trespass is a crime under CJPO 1994. It doesn't require occupation of the land but does require acts intended to prevent the owner of the land from engaging in a lawful activity that the owner wants to carry out. So depending on the facts it might apply here but if the trespasser is camping in a quiet corner and not getting in anyone's way, it's still likely a civil matter.
tobotic@reddit
That subreddit also covers civil law.
Powerful_Ideas@reddit
Not the basic trespass but if it's interfering with the owner's use of the land it could be aggravated trespass, which is a criminal offence.
Also depending on the camp fire setup there could be criminal damage and/or theft of wood going on.
yossanator@reddit
Didn't say it was.
Michaelleahcim00@reddit
Your mother owns 12 acres and you want to take someone's tent, probably their only possession? You sick psychopath, have a word with yourself.
genx21me918@reddit
Look up local statutes on trespassing. Then call the sheriff and have them removed under the statute.
Beebeeseebee@reddit
Local statutes? Sheriff? You know this is England, right?
genx21me918@reddit
Oh, my bad. I did not see that! I apologize. There must be some laws to your benefit though. I hope.
First_Folly@reddit
Swap the horses for bulls. The problem will sort itself out sooner or later.
sgrass777@reddit
Ask them to move on,if they are abusive or refuse give the land plenty of liquid fertilizer đ
arenicolamarina@reddit
12 acres is plenty of space for some horses & a bod in a tent to co-exist.
haaiiychii@reddit
Do you want the legal answer, or the one that'll work?
Important_Oil_3857@reddit
Garden hose and spray it at 4am, 5am, 7am every morning.
You are watering your field and its not your fault he put his tent there
lostandfawnd@reddit
Talk to them.
Make it clear that you are muck spreading very soon.
Welsh__dresser@reddit
The farmers in France had the best deterrent spraying their trespassers with farm slurry.
Less-Sympathy3778@reddit
Don't you have any large pigs or cows to put on the land?
DoctorOctagonapus@reddit
The obvious solution is to park up nearby and play Tiny Tim songs at full volume all night until he leaves.
lorric372@reddit
Iâm so sorry I canât help, but I forgot squatting was more than just a sort of half sitting position and was really quite confused for a while.
motific@reddit
Is it just me, or does this sound like a job for an intact stallion? Every yard has that one horse and youâve already got a name in mind. Failing that, steer or goats.
They should deal with the problem while you sit back and film it for lols on the tink tonks.
V8boyo@reddit
Go say hi and let them know that the field needs fertilizer pretty soon. Just giving them a heads up. All passive aggressive. Then the next day say it's booked in for a couple of days (actually get a muck spreader in) and if they don't move you're covered, but not as much as they'd be.
Just_Stand_861@reddit
I think thenpolice are being assholes. Trespassing is their responsibility..
catsareniceDEATH@reddit
Honestly, be grateful that all they've done is set up a tent and a small campfire.
Many years ago, before my parents moved into their place, there was a squatter. The person lived in one room, with their kid, didn't.ake a problem, and just made sure their kid had a roof over their head and a decent education in the area. We'd never have known they were there.
Then the police got involved.
After that person was moved on, a group of squatters moved in, and made it their business to completely fuck the property up. They set fire to the garden, garage, shed, and dining room. We had to pay to have all of their waste (including needles and ... Ahem, biological waste) removed. All the time the parent and kid were there, they discouraged other squatters from moving in and trashing the place. No idea why, but they did.
After the police moved the parent on, they then claimed that they couldn't legally move the other squatters on.
A home that had previously been safe and good for a family with young kids to move into (even the room the parent and kid had beeniving in) was suddenly a bio-hazard of the expensive kind.
Just saying.
TrazynNecronos@reddit
Get a farmer to spread manure around.
Bksudbjdua@reddit
Have you spoke to him/her? Is it someone out of luck and need help? They might be useful on the land?
DevilsAdvocate1662@reddit
Asking them to move won't do any good, if they were a decent person, they wouldn't be there in the first place.
Only way you're going to get them to move is fight fire with fire
SoggyWotsits@reddit
Speak to him first and let him know that itâs private land. He might be apologetic and move on. He might be going through a rough time and then itâs up to you whether youâre sympathetic or not - your land, your choice. He might be rude, and thatâs when you might want to look at some of these other suggestions!
EntirelyRandom1590@reddit
Can you make the argument for aggravated trespass to the police? That's when it becomes a criminal offence and not civil.
critterwol@reddit
It is 100% aggravated trespass, assuming he's been asked to leave, that's the trigger.
RoastKrill@reddit
I don't know where this idea comes from. That's simply not what the law says
critterwol@reddit
Cos he's lit a fire and that is damage to property.
RoastKrill@reddit
That has nothing to do with aggravated trespass. That's a completely separate offence, and one the police are unlikely to do anything about unless there's a risk of it spreading.
RoastKrill@reddit
It's unlikely to meet the criteria for aggravated trespass given the information in the post.
EntirelyRandom1590@reddit
Setting up a tent and starting a fire in a grazing field? How is it not!?
RoastKrill@reddit
Aggravated trespass in UK law requires that someone is trespassing with the intention of obstructing, disrupting, or intimidating people from engaging in lawful activity. Unless the person camping is doing so with the goal of preventing the horses from being grazed, that's not aggravated trespass. There might be a separate offense going on with the fire, but unless it's a high fire risk area (certain national parks during dry weather), the police are unlikely to do much about that because it's an incredibly low level offence, and if they come across people doing it then all they're likely to do is tell people to put out the fire.
EntirelyRandom1590@reddit
Setting up a tent and a fire in a field is an intentional act that disrupts the use of the field as it was intended to be used. Any keeper of large animals would have to exclude their animals from that pasture to avoid risk of harm to the animals or those trespassing. Similarly, any pasture management (silage harvest, spreading etc) would also have to stop for the safety of the trespassers.
Hire grass fire risks are not limited to national parks, that's a weird townie view of rural life.
RoastKrill@reddit
That's not what intentional means in this context. The reason for trespassing has to be to disrupt. Here the reason for trespassing is almost certainly not to disrupt - it is to have somewhere to sleep, and a side effect of this might be some disruption. That's what the law says. You can think the law should be changed, but that's what it says.
Virtual_Opinion_8630@reddit
The squatters have to intentionally and with intention to intimidate, obstruct or disrupt the lawful activity of others.
There needs to be an act above the trespass itself. A demonstration was held to such an act.
I'm not sure a campfire would meet the criteria
Puzzled-Job9556@reddit
Post here: r/UnethicalLifeProTips
mahler_1@reddit
What happened to the law of tresspass?
CockWombler666@reddit
Ask the local farmer to spread some manureâŚ
Decent_Confidence_36@reddit
Are they being distributive or abusive ?.. if not then Iâd just leave them be
grepusman@reddit
Can you consider their belongings to be fly-tipping and dispose of them?
ImThatBitchNoodles@reddit
What's wrong with just going up to them and trying a civilised conversation first. What the fuck happened to you all that makes you want to bring even more suffering to a person in an unfortunate situation?
From comments encouraging OP to spread manure on his tent to people like you advising to throw his stuff away. 12 acres of land and imagine being so inconvenienced by someone making use of 10 metres of it.
grepusman@reddit
I assume since he's got the nerve to just take the tent and move it, he's already spoken to them.
RoastKrill@reddit
No.
Chilled-Fridge@reddit
The legal advice sub will tell you to sit with your hands under your arse. Take of that what you will, personally I'd be moving their tent and grabbing a few strong buddies if they refuse - not to be nasty or violent, just to ensure things stay peaceful and I'm protected.
Flashy-Nectarine1675@reddit
Go to the courts, not social media.
Does your mum use it to evade tax?
broken-runner-26@reddit
Time for the fertiliser to make an appearance.
Vanbursta1@reddit
Why don't you try nicely explaining it's your land and asking them to move?
Nuker-79@reddit
Would you know a local farmer who would spread pig swill in one of his spreaders around the field?
Belle_TainSummer@reddit
Yes, a lawyer. And nobody else.
ArcTan_Pete@reddit
this is reddit, so we can make 2 assumptions
1) you havent spoken to them yet
2) half of the replies are going to suggest something violent and illegal
have fun sorting through the replies
astralcorrection@reddit
Are they causing any problems? I d be happy with the company
JayValere@reddit
The spraying muck idea would work, or invest in low frequency sound emitters/ Infrasonic Weapons and direct at them, should drive them insane, disturb their sleep etc. this would also be a long term strategy, reusable if anyone tries again. Treat them like the pests they are, good luck.
Snoo-74562@reddit
There is an easy answer to this put a bull in the field.
misshoneypollenpants@reddit
Get the slurry out soon move on if they getting covered on a daily basis
LeastInsurance8578@reddit
You have horses, let them do their business around the tent
HorrorCollection69@reddit
Get a shotgun license
ezsqueezycheezypeas@reddit
Have you considered hiring a muck spreader to fertilise the field? I'm sure there's a farmer who would be able to lend you 200 gallons or so of shit and piss đ¤
tordyjay@reddit
Go run them off your land. Shotgun optional
AskUK-ModTeam@reddit
A top level comment (one that is not a reply) should be a good faith and genuine attempt to answer the question.
HobNob_Pack@reddit
Go and move them?
Nigel-Flaps@reddit
Have you told them to bloody well do one?! That is unacceptable and I would be mighty cross.
critterwol@reddit
if you ask them to leave and they don't that's aggravated trespass, plus throw in damage to property from the fire. it becomes a legal issue (not civil). Get some mates round to chuck him off.
TheGherkin69@reddit
Maybe they're homeless.
Could they be allowed to stay if they respect the land and tidy up after themselves?
It could make a lot of difference to someone in a difficult situation.
They probably don't know it's private land anyway, so either way an amicable discussion with them might be an idea.
Cow_Launcher@reddit
I sort of agree, but I would have to ask the question: where exactly are they defecating?
TheGherkin69@reddit
When I was homeless, I'd walk into town and use the public toilets for that.
If I was out camping or sleeping somewhere without access, hypothetically, I would bury it. Beats bagging it up đ
Thankfully I've always been relatively close to services, and live indoors these days.
Cow_Launcher@reddit
I figured any reasonable person would, but I left it dangling there to make the point that it's possible that they're not reasonable. Talking to them would establish that.
In any case, I hope you're doing well! I've been lucky enough to have never been homeless, and frankly I'm not sure I would've been very good at it.
TheGherkin69@reddit
Housed for many years now, but thank you for asking!
Unfortunately, some people will litter when there's a bin right there. Hopefully whoever is on OP's mother's land isn't like that.
toarstr@reddit
"...respect the land and tidy up after themselves..."
Narrator: This never happens.
TheGherkin69@reddit
I can only speak for myself.
TellMeManyStories@reddit
OP is exposing themselves to all kinds of legal liabilities if they do this. If you rent something to someone with the knowledge they'll live there, it has to be up to domestic standards - dry, insulated, etc. When it isn't, they could force you to pay to bring it up to standards.
sihasihasi@reddit
Have you ever paid to camp?
Please explain the difference.
TheGherkin69@reddit
Extremely appropriate username.
JustinSanders95@reddit
Nah youâre not renting it, youâre just allowing them to be on and use your land.
mycatissodarncute@reddit
I love how many people are willing to fling mounds of crap at some tent folks and we don't even know if the squatters are aware of the situation and that they're squatting, only that police patched op, this sub never disappoints
Suggest another manure dump guys I'm sure another comment will sort it
murmurat1on@reddit
Ask them to stand up
Natural_Bet6685@reddit
Get off my land. makes me laugh. you'll all be dead soon. worrying about a bit of ground. jesus.
PresterJonny@reddit
Go and dump a bucket of water on the fire and tell them to fuck off. If they don't slash their tent to ribbons. Take a few people with you if you're likely to be physically intimidated.Â
dwhite21787@reddit
Shame this isnât an occasion for spraying the field with manure
AbbreviationsLost458@reddit
You get a bunch of liquid fertilizer the stinkier the better and go and blast them with it.
gadgetman29@reddit
Pay a local farmer to come and do some muck spreading. Tell them to use the really sloppy stinky stuff
Past_Grass_@reddit
I saw this before. Would probably work for you too
https://www.reddit.com/r/interestingasfuck/s/UEz5qvF2LR
thescouselander@reddit
The farmers around here find it beneficial to speed muck at various times of year. Smells quite a bit. Just saying, like.
Competitive_Annual78@reddit
I would think the easiest way is to just hire a couple of lads from the bad side of town and let them have a go at it. Check and verify references first before hiring.
An1malN1trat3@reddit
Wait until the squatters leave the land for some reason, maybe shopping or drinking. Remove their possessions from the land because those are litter.
Occamsfacecloth@reddit
Break your fence and call the police and day they did it, that might work. This is not legal advice
tombstonerayman@reddit
Pig slurry that side off the field
NoEquipment7363@reddit
Yea this has got to be drugs or CSAM - vile
Brief-Freedom734@reddit
my mates at the gym would be happy to have a chat with them
HauntingCicada2630@reddit
Go back to the playground đ
n3m0sum@reddit
It is possible for it to be aggravated (criminal) tresspass. If the tresspass prevents legitimate use.
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1994/33/section/68
So if the tresspass makes the legitimate grazing unsafe, either for the horses or squatters. Then it is a criminal act.
Get back in touch with the police, quote the previous incident and tell them that you want it reinvestigated as aggravated tresspass, quoting the links statute to them.
While you are on the phone with them, tell them you would like their unauthorized fire investigated as criminal damage (arson).
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1971/48/body#:~:text=1%20Destroying%20or%20damaging%20property,29
If the horses were in the field when the fire was lit. Ask for them to be investigated for animal welfare crimes under section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Unnecessary suffering.
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/45/section/4
I can't imagine animals as sensitive horses are happy in a field with a fire.
3_34544449E14@reddit
Only if the trespass is intended to cause the disruption. If it's just a person looking for somewhere to sleep then the disruption is unintentional and the trespass isn't aggravated. If you tell the trespasser that they're trespassing and they refuse to leave then they'd be intentionally causing the disruption and so it would be aggravated. From your first link see 68.1.
n3m0sum@reddit
Yes, but at this point the tralesspassers have been told and asked to leave. It seems that they are refusing and therefore intentionally preventing safe legitimate use.
3_34544449E14@reddit
Maybe that's in the comments? All I can see in OP is that there's someone camping in the field and the police don't care.
F00TS0re@reddit
There are common law methods for removal of people from land.
I investigated this as was buying land from the receiver with the existing owner likely to remain on the land post sale.
Broadly the process is state the relevant common law, ask them to leave, then they notify the police there will likely be a breach of the peace. They start removing stuff, if a ruckus occurs squatter gets arrested. I had a quote from one in York and cost was ÂŁ3.5k and removal in 4-hours!
At a quick google:
https://www.clearway.co.uk/land-eviction-services/
dontjustexists@reddit
Are they staying the night or for an extended peroid of time?
Special-Audience-426@reddit
Tell him he needs to do all the mucking out if he wants to stay.Â
Grumpyoldgit1958@reddit
Probably that time of the year when the grass needs feeding ! You can probably find a local farmer who has pig slurry and a spray spreader. For a sensible fee I am sure they will spray your fields in its entirety, illegal squatters included.
RichBenf@reddit
What you need is geese. I've heard they'll break your arm.
Thin-Grocery3134@reddit
Put a boombox and cameras right next to their tent. Play it all night loud enough they cant sleep and so it doesnt disturb neighbours. Let the neighbours know what you are doing, as I doubt they want a neanderthal living in a field next door either. They might not make a noise complaint if they understand why.
Dru2021@reddit
Nice time of year to start spreading muck for the land! Not on the tent or person, just close enough to make a stink, so to speak..
62178091@reddit
I feel some redistribution of horse manure to ensure the land is well fertilized for future seasons would be a good idea, and maybe get some pigs to compliment the horses.
sneddsdead@reddit
jools4you@reddit
Put a few goats in the field
mingebinj@reddit
Unfortunately, we live in a world where those that follow the rules and play by the book are worse off than those that don't. You're essentially screwed unless you're willing to play by the same rules they are.
If you try and do this officially, you'll be fobbed off left right and centre and if you aren't it'll still take months or years for any kind of action.
I'm sure someone will tell you why moving their tent will be a bad idea but in honestly who gives a fuck. If fuck all will happen to them for pitching a tent and setting fires wherever they want, fuck all will happen to you. The police, courts and council have bigger fish to fry than someone who took a tent pitched on their own land.
The only thing I'd say is even worth considering is some kind of retaliation. Assuming you've already told them to piss off and they haven't, they are obviously not gunna take kindly to it. If you can move their tent when they aren't there, great. Otherwise gets some mates, preferably men, and get them moved. Realistically, if they come back what damage can they do to a field. Ask yourself if you'd rather whatever they can do back to you or rather them live there for months/years.
RoutineAbroad3486@reddit
Wipe his arse
robertva1@reddit
Go to the local pub. Bring cash.... I'm shoure you can find someone willing to help
AskUK-ModTeam@reddit
A top level comment (one that is not a reply) should be a good faith and genuine attempt to answer the question.
Jumpy-Jello-@reddit
Speak to them, inform them they are on private property and ask them to move.
wowplayer2723023@reddit
If you have 12 acres of land, I would say the last issue in your life is someone camping on it. Rich people problems.
ihavetakenthebiscuit@reddit
Can all the horse shit get stored next to their tent?
SpiderLight97@reddit
Did you try talking to them..?
42ElectricSundaes@reddit
Haunt them
clutchnorris123@reddit
Depends where in the UK you are different laws for Scotland compared to England and wales
EmptyStock9676@reddit
Ask a local farmer to start muck spreading around the tent. Most will be happy to help
CapableSong6874@reddit
Is it like theyâre living there permanently or just going there to chill out away from the rat race? Any rubbish left? I am guessing you are in England as this is a bit more acceptable if done the right way in Scotland
Adam-West@reddit
How long have they been there? A single tent and a campfire sounds like the best least stressful course of action is to ignore it. Itâs not the kind of set up that will attract more trespassers. Itâs not the kind of setup that will last very long. Go and ask him what his intentions are first but honestly this kind of thing isnât worth getting worked up about.
HereticLaserHaggis@reddit
Where is it? You invite your local young team to have a few mental summer weekends right where they camp.
icemonsoon@reddit
Spread chicken shit manure on the field
justbiteme2k@reddit
This isn't the legal sub so... You could just wait for them to leave and take the tent away.
Plenty_Suspect_3446@reddit
First thing i'd do is talk to him. Determine why he is there and how long he intends to stay.
Perhaps he is hiking across the country and just needs a couple of days rest. If so and he is friendly i'd to let him use the shower and give him some water and a hot meal then politely remind him to respect the land during his stay and wish him luck on his journey.
If he is planning to set up a permanent squat then i'd look into legal rights for removal and if they are unfeasible then do what some of the other responses have said like pay a farmer to spray the field.
Low-Opening25@reddit
chill, they will be gone in a day or two, what harm does it cause you?
50fkn2s@reddit
Sounds like the perfect spot for the new muck heap.
Hot-Satisfaction19@reddit
french farmers did some muck spreading to get rid of travellers that started staying on their land but that would probably be worse for the horses. i lnow it's not much help but could spark an idea. good luck!
Able_Cabinet_9118@reddit
Big piles of fresh manure is just as doable and horses donât care .
Coenberht@reddit
Charge him.
Belterhaze31@reddit
Feel like the fella living in a tent on a random field probably doesnât have money to spare
OccidentalTouriste@reddit
They've got horses not bulls.
FallZealousideal3337@reddit
Call your local council or a solicitor first self help like moving their tent can backfire legally, but a formal eviction notice will get them off your land the right way.
Isgortio@reddit
Approach them and inform them there is a fee to stay on your land. They'll either leave because they don't want to pay, or you profit from it.
sbuxty@reddit
As a serious reply I doubt you can seize their property, youâd probably be better placed to request them to leave and then discuss if theyâre trespassing with the police.
Less seriously, they might have some nice herbs or mushrooms you can both indulge in, should you become friendly.
moanybastard@reddit
Have you got access to a muck spreader?
SnooDonuts6494@reddit
*their
Contact a solicitor.
HauntingCicada2630@reddit
Talk to them.
LordvaderUK@reddit
Have you approached the person and tried speaking to them? I mean, itâs an obvious first stepâŚ
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