In legal terms, what does the term "trespass" refer to?

The term "trespass" legally refers to the act of entering someone's property without permission. This definition encompasses not just physical entry but also the intent to remain on the property without the owner's consent. In many jurisdictions, including California, trespassing is classified as a civil violation and can potentially lead to legal action by the property owner against the trespasser.

The other options, while related to the concept of trespass, do not accurately capture its specific legal definition. For instance, leaving a place without permission does not constitute trespassing since it involves exiting rather than entering premises. Building on land without consent may involve other legal issues such as property disputes but does not directly define trespassing. Ignoring a no trespassing sign implies a potential for trespass, but simply ignoring the sign itself does not legally define the act of trespassing without actual entry onto the property. Thus, the focus on entering property without consent directly aligns with the legal understanding of trespass.