The City of Atlanta has its own Code of Ordinances that are separate from state law charges. While they often mimic state charges, Atlanta Police can choose to cite an individual for violating a city ordinance. These ordinance violations are litigated in the Municipal Court of Atlanta.

One of these ordinances that we often see individuals cited for is Section 106-56: unauthorized persons entering vacant buildings. This code section reads:

“It shall be unlawful for any person to enter or to remain in a vacant or unoccupied building or on any portion of vacant land upon which such vacant building is located unless with the permission of an authorized agent of such property, provided such building or vacant property is prominently marked by a posted notice, attached to the ordinance from which this section is derived as exhibit A, which is easily seen from a distance of at least 50 feet that informs the public such property is vacant or unoccupied and unauthorized persons are prohibited from entering.”

We see this charge often when individuals enter buildings that have long been abandoned for the purpose of exploring, taking pictures, or even making videos. Even though the intentions are often innocent, citations can arise that must be dealt with in the Municipal Court of Atlanta.

If you have been cited with this code section, we would love to represent you. Call us at 404-581-0999 for a free consultation with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys.