What are the rules regarding a mature, sane female residing alone?

Chapter on Who is More Entitled to Child Custody

Al-Mughni

Book of Maintenance (Nafaqāt)

Book 46 · Issue 2 · Bab 3

Open in Qurani

Primary text

If the child is a female who has reached maturity, she is not permitted to reside alone. Her father has the right to prevent her from doing so due to the fear that someone might enter upon her, leading to her corruption and bringing shame upon her and her family. If she has no father, her guardian (wali) and family may prevent her from residing alone.