Prohibition of Trespassory Assemblies

Public Order Act 1986, s.14A

Warrant: No
Force: No
Notice: Yes

A chief officer of police may apply to the local council for an order prohibiting trespassory assemblies in a specified area if the chief officer reasonably believes that an assembly of 20 or more persons is likely to be held on land to which the public has no right of access, or limited right, and that the assembly may result in serious disruption to the life of the community or significant damage to land, a building, or a monument of historical importance.

Conditions

The chief officer must apply to the district council (or in London, the Commissioner applies to the Secretary of State)
The assembly must involve 20 or more persons on land without a right of access
There must be a reasonable belief that the assembly will cause serious disruption or significant damage

Limitations

The order prohibits the assembly: it does not create a power of entry to private premises
A constable in uniform may stop persons proceeding to the prohibited assembly under s.14C
Knowingly organising, participating in, or inciting attendance at a prohibited assembly is an offence

Last updated 24 September 2026