What Is a No Trespass Order in Massachusetts?

A no trespass order is a written notice that tells someone they’re no longer allowed on a particular piece of private property. In Massachusetts, these are most commonly issued by businesses, landlords, or homeowners—and they don’t require a court order to be valid.

Police often serve these notices, but they’re not criminal charges themselves. That said, if you ignore the order and return to the property, you can be charged with trespassing under G.L. c. 266, § 120. The penalties include a fine or even jail time, especially if it’s part of a larger dispute.

No trespass orders are frequently used in shoplifting or disturbance cases. I’ve seen clients issued one after being accused of minor conduct in a store or an apartment complex. Even if no charges are filed at the time, the order stays in place—and violating it later can lead to a court date.

It’s important to take these notices seriously. If you’ve been given one and you think it was unfair—or if you're now facing charges for allegedly violating it—I can help you understand your options and defend your case.