COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa — The Council Bluffs Police Department announced Monday, Sept. 21, a new Criminal Trespass Program that allows eligible private property owners to register properties and authorized people so officers can more quickly respond to trespassing calls.
According to police, the program lets participating property owners provide information in advance about who is allowed to be on a property. When officers are called to a registered location, they can review the information on file instead of first trying to reach the owner.
The program is intended for private properties where public access is limited, including vacant homes, renovation properties, fenced business lots, storage areas and businesses outside normal operating hours. Officials said it is not meant for public property or for businesses while they are open to the public.
How the Council Bluffs trespass program works
Property owners must enroll online and submit information about the property and people authorized to be there. They then must go to the Council Bluffs Police Department with a driver’s license, proof of residency or ownership and payment for any signs they order…