What is "criminal trespass" in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, "criminal trespass" is defined as the act of entering or remaining on property without the permission of the property owner or lawful occupant. This means that simply being on someone else's property without authorization constitutes an offense, regardless of intent to commit further crimes, such as vandalism or theft. The focus is on the unauthorized entry or occupancy of the land or premises, which is a clear infringement on the property rights of the individual who owns or has lawful control over the property.

This definition emphasizes the importance of respecting others' property rights and establishes a baseline for legal accountability when it comes to property access. Other options might refer to related but distinct offenses—such as property damage, disruption of peace, or unauthorized use for personal gain—but do not capture the essence of criminal trespass, which is primarily concerned with the unauthorized presence on the property itself.