I can't comment on the ownership "Q" as I don't live in the U.S., but regarding training cats to avoid certain areas try this:
Firstly, I'm not pulling your leg, I have used this method on all my cats (8) with great success. Do try it
Known fact: all cats hate the smell of anything citrus! So I left orange/ lemon & lime quarters down in my flower beds for a couple of weeks(replacing them with fresh ones as they wilted). I used the essential oil "Citronella" neat in my house where might have wanted to leave little pressies. I don't know how affective this would be in soil, but I do know it stops cats spraying the house outdoor walls and doors and boundry fences! regular application is best.

Hope you can try this, it works trust me!

Gina and the Furry gang, from across the pond!