Posted: November 16, 2024 | Industry News
If you’ve ever driven through rural North Carolina, you might have noticed trees or fence posts with bright purple paint on them. If you’re like most people, you’ve probably wondered what that’s all about. Well, it turns out, it’s more than just a random paint job—those purple markings are actually a clear way of saying “No Trespassing.”
In North Carolina (and quite a few other states), property owners can use purple paint instead of the traditional “No Trespassing” signs to mark their land. It’s part of something called the Purple Paint Law, and it’s a cost-effective, low-maintenance way for landowners to let people know their property is off-limits. Whether you’re into hunting, fishing, or just taking a leisurely walk through the woods, seeing purple paint means you’re entering private property, and you need to turn around.
The paint serves the same purpose as a sign, but it’s much harder to miss, and unlike signs that can get knocked down or weathered, the paint lasts a lot longer.
Property owners often struggle with keeping up signs—wind, rain, or even vandals can make it tough to maintain clear no trespassing markers. But paint? It’s pretty much a one-and-done solution. Once it’s on the tree or post, it’s going to stick around for a while. Plus, it’s a lot cheaper than buying signs that need to be replaced.
In North Carolina, Statute G.S. 14-159.7 lays out the specific rules for using purple paint. The paint marks have to be at least eight inches long and placed between three and five feet off the ground. These markings need to be visible to anyone approaching and spaced no more than 100 yards apart. So, if you’re walking through the woods and spot one purple mark, keep an eye out for others—they’re all there to tell you the same thing: this land is private.
The Purple Paint Law is primarily aimed at keeping people from trespassing for activities like hunting, fishing, or trapping. But just because the paint is linked to outdoor activities doesn’t mean it’s only about sportsmen. If you see purple paint, it’s a general no trespassing marker. So, whether you’re out hiking, exploring, or just taking photos, you’ll want to respect those boundaries.
Keep in mind, even though purple paint works as a no-trespassing warning, some situations in North Carolina still require property owners to post actual signs. It’s always a good idea to double-check local laws, especially if you’re a landowner.
Yes, and it’s important to follow them to make sure the paint serves its purpose. The purple paint needs to be at least eight inches long and placed between three to five feet off the ground. It should be easy to see for anyone walking by, and you’ll want to make sure marks are spaced no more than 100 yards apart.
If you’re marking the property along a body of water—like a pond, lake, or stream—the same rules apply. Just make sure the marks follow the shoreline and remain visible. It’s all about giving clear, visible warnings to anyone approaching the property.
Good question! Signs are still a great way to mark your property, but they can be a hassle. They get knocked over, stolen, or wear out over time. Paint, on the other hand, is more durable. Once you’ve painted the marks, you’re pretty much set for years without having to worry about them disappearing.
North Carolina isn’t the only state using purple paint as a no-trespassing marker. If you’re planning on traveling or hunting in other states, here are a few others that have the same law in place:
Each state has slight variations on the law, but the general concept is the same: purple paint means stay out.
If you’re out exploring, whether on foot or in a vehicle, it’s always a good idea to know what these purple paint marks mean. Trespassing might seem like a minor offense, but in North Carolina, it can carry some serious consequences.
For example, first-degree trespassing (entering property that’s clearly marked or enclosed) can result in a misdemeanor, which might not sound too bad, but it can still lead to fines or even jail time. Second-degree trespassing, which occurs when you enter land with signs or paint marks, is also a misdemeanor with penalties that can include fines and potential jail time.
For hunters or fishermen, trespassing on land marked with purple paint can lead to even steeper penalties. And if you’re caught on land owned by a utility company or another sensitive area, the charges can increase to a felony, leading to serious consequences like long-term prison sentences.
The next time you’re out enjoying the beauty of North Carolina, remember that purple paint isn’t just a random splash of color. It’s a clear and legal way of saying “No Trespassing.” Whether you’re a property owner looking for a low-maintenance way to protect your land or someone who loves to hike or hunt, it’s important to understand what these markings mean.
If you’re a landowner interested in using purple paint to post your property, grab a can of paint, follow the guidelines, and start marking. It’s a simple, effective way to keep your land safe from unwanted visitors.
And if you have any questions about property laws, trespassing rules, or how to protect your land, feel free to reach out to us here at Carolina Forestry & Real Estate. We’re always happy to help!