Squatter’s Rights in Vermont

In Vermont, squatters can claim legal ownership through adverse possession after continuously occupying a property for 15 years. To establish a valid claim, squatters must meet several specific requirements: hostile possession (occupying without the owner’s permission), open and notorious possession (visible to anyone, including the legal owner), exclusive possession (being the only one using the property), and making substantial improvements to the property (such as adding buildings, fences, or gardens).

Unlike some states, Vermont requires squatters to pay property taxes on the land for the entire 15-year period to make a valid adverse possession claim. They cannot be accidental trespassers but must intend to claim legal ownership of the property. If successful, squatters gain the same property rights as any other landowner, including the right to occupy, sell, modify, or use the property as collateral for loans.

Trespassing in Vermont is considered a misdemeanor criminal offense, and police have the authority to arrest squatters. However, if squatters remain on a property for 15 years, it becomes a civil matter. Property owners must take legal action to remove squatters before this 15-year period expires or risk losing their property rights.

To evict squatters, property owners must provide written notice (typically a 3-day notice), and if squatters don’t leave, file a lawsuit for ejectment with the county court. Self-help evictions through force are illegal in Vermont. The court process can cost between $3,000 and $5,000, including filing fees, serving notices, attorney fees, and sheriff services. Once a judge rules in the owner’s favor, they will issue a Writ of Possession giving the owner the legal right to remove the squatters and reclaim the property.