The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is proposing to create a new Trespass Act and gathering public feedback on the development of trespass legislation.

Currently, all provinces have trespass to property legislation in place covering private lands in general, however, the three territories do not.

Trespass legislation will outline the rights of property owners and lawful occupiers and the consequences for those found in violation. This legislation may prevent or deter potentially criminal behaviour, by providing an additional measure to remove individuals from private property before more serious crimes are committed.

The GNWT invites NWT residents to provide feedback about this legislation through an online survey by October 8, 2025.

Results from the survey will be summarized in a What We Heard Report that will help inform the development of the Trespass Act for the territory.

For media requests, please contact:
Ngan Trinh    
Senior Communications Advisor
Department of Justice
Government of the Northwest Territories
Email: ngan_trinh@gov.nt.ca
Phone Number: 867-767-9256, ext. 82083