Hiker of the Woods
Active Member
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There is federal law regarding this situation and the landowner could be sentenced to up to one year in jail and $1,000 fine. Under the Unlawful Inclosures Act 43 USC section 1061-66, If the citizen blocked from trying to use the public lands feels compelled, they can file a citizen affidavit with the US Attorney?s Office in the proper district, and the United States is required by law to file a civil suit against the landowner or the party creating the unlawful enclosure. It is nice to seek agreement and help from relevant law enforcement as the article indicates but they may not always be willing or fast to act ? the UIA, a Congressional Act, is another option. There is also federal regulation addressing signs specifically, 43 CFR 4140.1 (b)(7) (7), Interfering with lawful uses or users including obstructing free transit through or over public lands by force, threat, intimidation, signs, barrier or locked gates ? punishable by a $500 fine. In some cases there are also state laws such as hunter harassment but they are rarely used or enforced.
http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title43/chapter25&edition=prelim
http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title43/chapter25&edition=prelim