The Government of Saskatchewan has passed new regulations that give police more power to enforce trespass laws in public spaces and businesses.
The changes are aimed at addressing safety concerns linked to illicit drug use, including fentanyl and methamphetamine, and are part of the province’s broader strategy to protect communities from drug-related harms.
Under The Trespass to Property Amendment Regulations, 2025, certain behaviours, including public intoxication and drug use, are now automatically considered trespassing in places like libraries, parks and shops.
Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod said the amendments will allow police to respond more quickly when public safety is at risk.
“We continue to explore avenues that will provide police with additional legal tools to address harmful items and activities in public spaces,” McLeod said in a release. “These regulations will ensure that police can act quickly to remove individuals who pose a threat to themselves and others.”
Police will now be authorized to remove or charge individuals under The Trespass to Property Act for activities such as:
- public intoxication
- use of a controlled substance
- making threats to people or property
- public urination or defecation
- damaging property
- engaging in any activity that is an offence under the Criminal Code
The province says fentanyl and methamphetamine are contributing to a rise in overdose deaths, violent crime and community disruption.
The new rules, it says, are another step in reducing the impact of addiction and keeping public spaces safe.
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