INSTRUCTIONS FOR LETTERS OF AUTHORITY

1. The California Penal Code, section 602(o), provides that private property
owners may authorize local law enforcement to arrest trespassers under
certain provisions. A Letter of Authorization must be on file, and signs must be
posted.

2. Upon request, a Letter of Authority form may be obtained in the following
manner:

• City of Santa Maria's Website (Letter of Authority Form)
• In person
  • At 1111. W. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria, CA 9345
• By Mail
  •  Call (805) 928-3781 – Ext. 1167 for more information 
• By Fax
  • Send to (805) 349-9239

3. Upon receipt of the Letter of Authority, it will be assigned a case number, the
information entered into our computerized Records Management System, and
filed appropriately.

4. Signs on the property are required. The owner or owner's agent must provide
and post a "No Trespass" sign on the property. These signs are available at
hardware or lumber stores. This department does not provide signs.

Requirements for No Trespassing Signs

5. The Letter of Authority is valid for one year only. The requester is responsible
for obtaining forms and requesting continued active prevention.