The City recommends that property owners
complete a Letter of Agency form with the San Diego Police Department (SDPD).
This form allows SDPD officers to act as agents for the owner of private property, specifically for purposes of enforcing laws against any person(s) found on the property without the owner’s consent or without lawful purpose.
This is an extremely useful tool and is strongly recommended for vacant properties, vacant lots, businesses or any properties upon which public nuisance activities and/or crimes may occur. Per California Penal Code section 602, this form must be renewed every 12 months to be effective.
Please submit the completed form via email or to your neighborhood police station. In conjunction with this form, it is strongly suggested (although not required) that the property display a sign indicating:
- a Letter of Agency has been filed with SDPD;
- the address of the property;
- the words "No Trespassing"; and
- the property manager and/or a contact information to share issues.
The sign should be no less than 18" X 24", ideally have a font legible from the nearest public street, and not be readily accessible to vandals. Signs should be evenly spaced throughout the surrounding property boundaries covered by the Letter of Agency.
View a sample sign.A sign indicating a Letter of Agency is on file with SDPD, including the address of the property, is necessary for SDPD to confirm the validity of the Letter of Agency and respond accordingly.