How do people get into yards?
How do people get into yards?
Every 3ft - that’s a yard.
But seriously, your question is vague. I’m not a RR employee but I believe RR yards are off limits to the public. You can stand across the street from a yard, but in another disscussion topic forum someone said that Norfolk Southern discourages even that.
I have no idea where you are geographically but if you’re ever in Kansas City, KS you can observe the Argentine RR Yard safely and leagally from the Goddard Street Bridge which runs directly over the tracks. See either the June or July 2000 issue of Trains Magazine for specific details and other pedestrian walks.
I know nothing about any other yards anywhere in the US except for some other small towns in Southeast Kansas.
The only other way to get into RR yards is to be employed by that RR company. Otherwise get out your yard stick and head to the nearest football field. 
Generally speaking, railroad property is private property and anyone other than employees are trespassing. Due to the dangers present, railroads strictly enforce “no trespassing” laws. However, sometimes facilities will be opened to the public on organized tours or a person can receive permission to visit a specific facility. Short lines are often more accomodating than the major railroads on this, permitting photographers access if they seem responsible and careful people and are willing to sign a liability release. If you are interested in visiting a specific facility on a major railroad, write its Public Relations Department explaining your purpose and they might give your a permit or arrange a tour. For a short line, write to or go by its General Office.
Gregg,
I believe that railroad yards are also off limits, but if you obtain permission to be around the yard, then I think it is ok if you stay back. As long as you stay back, out of the way, and they can see you at all times. If they come and ask you what you are doing, then tell them. It also helps them to figure it out if you have a camera in hand, then sometimes they won’t even come up to you because it don’t take a scientist to figure out what your doing. If you tell them or obtain permission. Then its ok.
Dru