There’s an increase across America. Purple paint is being seen in the woods, on fences, and various objects to warn hikers, hunters, dirtbike riders, and campers to stay away.
Purple paint has become a universal warning sign and in many states, it’s even a law. If you’re walking through the woods and see purple painted trees, turn around and head back.
In many states, landowners are now allowed by law to use purple paint instead of “No Trespassing Signs” to protect their property. If you ignore the purple paint, you can find yourself charged with trespassing on another person’s property.
Pennsylvania singed a purple paint bill into law last January.
Landowners who post their properties now have the option of using purple paint rather than signs to alert others that lands are private and trespassing isn’t permitted.
New York and New Jersey do not have purple paint laws and both states are very detailed about signage placement that properly declares property as off-limits.
New York legislators have proposed the law, similar to the one you would find in Maine and North Carolina. If you are in those states and happen to see purple-painted trees, it’s a good idea to not challenge the legality of it because purple paint on a tree has become the universal American symbol for no trespassing. It’s a situation probably best to avoid.