Ala. Code §§ 35-9B-1 to 35-9B-9 § 35-9B-8
Construction and Application of Chapter.
Operative Text
This chapter does not limit the rights of a property owner or limit the authority of a law enforcement officer to arrest an unlawful occupant for trespassing, theft, burglary, or other crimes.
Alabama Code §§ 35-9B-1 to 35-9B-9, § 35-9B-8 clarifies that the chapter governing unlawful occupants does not restrict the existing legal rights of property owners or the authority of law enforcement. Police officers retain full power to arrest individuals for trespassing, theft, burglary, or other criminal offenses regardless of any civil procedures outlined elsewhere in the chapter. The provision functions as a savings clause, ensuring that criminal law remedies remain available alongside any civil remedies the chapter provides.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 35-9B-8, property owners are not limited to the civil procedures described elsewhere in Alabama Code §§ 35-9B-1 to 35-9B-9 when dealing with unlawful occupants. Operators who encounter conduct that may constitute trespassing, theft, burglary, or other crimes generally have the option of contacting law enforcement in addition to, or instead of, pursuing civil remedies. Documenting the nature of the occupancy and any criminal conduct is a practice commonly associated with supporting a law enforcement response.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section § 35-9B-8 of Alabama Code §§ 35-9B-1 to 35-9B-9 makes clear that the chapter does not eliminate the possibility of criminal charges being brought against individuals deemed to be unlawful occupants. Someone in a disputed occupancy situation should be aware that a property owner may simultaneously pursue civil removal procedures and request law enforcement involvement for alleged criminal conduct. Tenant-rights organizations and legal aid services can help individuals understand how this provision interacts with their specific circumstances.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 16, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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