What is a primary characteristic of curtilage?

A primary characteristic of curtilage is that it often includes areas close to the main entrance of a property. Curtilage refers to the land immediately surrounding a dwelling, which is considered part of the home for legal purposes. This area typically encompasses the space necessary for the activities associated with the home, such as gardens, patios, driveways, or any area that is used for domestic purposes.

While it is true that curtilage can include backyards, it is not limited to them; hence the assertion that it is always the backyard is not accurate. Additionally, curtilage is not strictly defined by fences, nor does it adhere to rigid boundaries. Instead, its determination can vary based on factors such as proximity to the home, usage of the space, and the context of how the area is utilized relative to the dwelling. Understanding curtilage is crucial in legal contexts, especially regarding search and seizure laws, as it influences what areas are afforded privacy protections under the Fourth Amendment.