Who can be classified as a 'trespasser'?

A person can be classified as a 'trespasser' when they enter or remain on land without the owner's consent or authority. This definition is fundamental to the law of trespass, which protects a property owner's rights by prohibiting unauthorized use of their land. Trespassing implies a disregard for the owner's rights and an unlawful presence that can lead to legal remedies for the landowner.

In contrast, individuals with an invitation, such as guests or licensed visitors, have the property owner's consent and thus cannot be classified as trespassers even if they exceed the limits of their invitation. Government officials conducting inspections usually have specific legal authority to be on the property, subject to the relevant laws and regulations governing their role, which prevents them from being categorized as trespassers in the context of their official duties. Therefore, the correct understanding of trespass hinges on the absence of permission or authority, making the identification of such unauthorized entry crucial for this classification.