Gina Heslop
If you’ve ever driven past a house and spotted a fence post or tree with a purple stripe, you might have wondered what it means. Well, it’s not just there to add a pop of color – it actually carries a crucial message that you should know, especially if you’re near someone’s property.
Purple fence posts serve as a warning sign to stay off private land. Instead of using traditional “No Trespassing” signs, landowners in many states now opt to paint a purple line on trees or posts to keep intruders away. This method makes the message more visible over time, as signs can wear out and become hard to read. Plus, it’s gentler on trees than nailing or screwing signs onto them.
People choose purple because it stands out in nature and catches attention. But other colors can convey the same message. In Idaho and Montana, for instance, orange paint serves the same purpose, while Maryland uses blue. It’s essential to know your state’s rules before marking your property.
When painting a fence post purple, it’s crucial to make the stripe visible, typically three to five feet above the ground and about one inch wide and eight inches long. You’ll also need to space painting posts every hundred feet to indicate where the line is.
Arkansas was the first state to implement the “purple paint law” in 1989, and since then, many others have followed suit. You’re likely to spot purple markings in states like Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Texas, and more.
So, if you encounter a purple-painted fence post or tree, remember: it’s a signal to stay away. And before venturing into new territories, make sure to understand the local rules to avoid any penalties.
